Community turns out for cancer ‘warrior’
Nearly 100 people turned out with posters of encouragement Monday evening to cheer on a 12-year-old Boulder City boy battling cancer.
He arrived at Bicentennial Park in style as he was aboard a Boulder City Fire Department engine followed closely by a Boulder City Police Department escort.
Isaak Oddieo was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma more than a year and a half ago and beat it. But earlier this year, the cancer returned.
But for about 30 minutes Monday, the spotlight was on him as a fighter and not just a cancer victim.
“It was really cool,” he said as the event was winding down. “All the support and people I saw today and everybody holding up signs was awesome.”
Before arriving at the park, Isaak went through firefighter drills at the fire station and was made an honorary BCFD firefighter. And once at the park, he received another surprise, a new puppy named Sammi.
His mom, Ashley, was also appreciative of the support from those on hand, many of whom she’s never met.
“This was very emotional and very overwhelming,” she said. “All the love and support has been amazing. Having the community come together for someone they know and for someone they don’t is a blessing.”
Ashley said that she pulled Isaak out of school in order to “live life,” as she added that doctors have said he has three to six months to live.
“But he’s a fighter and warrior and keeps on pushing,” she said. “I’ll ask, ‘Isaak do you want to go and do this or that?’ He says ‘yes’ no matter what it is. Isaak’s thing is faith over fear.”
That strength helps her as well. That, coupled with the support of family and friends.
“They take a lot of burden off of my shoulders, a burden that you don’t always realize you have,” she said. “I’ve tried to find as much free time for us and I can.”
Ashley, who grew up in Boulder City, said the support Monday is something that will stay with her for a long time to come.
“This is home,” she said. “I’m seeing people I know, those I don’t and the faces of people from Las Vegas who I haven’t seen in a while. It all just warms my heart.”
A GoFundMe account has been set up to help cover costs. Under gofundme.com, search for Help Isaak’s Journey.
