A South Jersey community came together on Saturday in order to help a local teen battling leukemia.
Kevin McGuire, a senior at Sterling High School in Somerdale, made headlines when he asked music star Taylor Swift if she would be his date to his prom. He gained support through a massive Facebook page created by his sister which features tens of thousands of people.
Swift responded to McGuire through her own Facebook fan page, informing the teen that she could not make it to his prom. To make up for it however, Swift invited Taylor to the Academy of Country Music Awards. While the teen eagerly accepted the invitation, the plans fell through after McGuire was admitted to the hospital a few days before the show. Swift gave the teen a shout out while accepting an award.
McGuire was first diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 13 and believed he beat the disease two years ago. He recently learned however his cancer had returned. He is currently receiving treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
On Saturday Somerdale residents held a block party in order to raise money for McGuire which the teen also attended. The event began at noon on Saratoga Road. All donations and proceeds will go directly to the McGuire family.
“It’s pretty awesome,” said Kevin. “It was great seeing everybody come out in support, people I haven’t seen since 3rd grade. Everyone’s been great and very supportive.”
