5-Year-Old CT Child Battles Cancer: Here's How We Can Help

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — A 5-year-old Northford boy, Luca Small, has been in a battle with brain cancer since he was a toddler.

"For the three and a half years since his diagnosis, Luca has had to endure more than any person, let alone child, should ever have to endure," the fundraiser page reads.

Luca has dealt with chemotherapy treatments, surgeries, MRIs, hospital admissions, and numerous specialist appointments, as well as daily physical and occupational therapy. He is also recovering from mobility struggles due to a stroke he suffered during his first brain surgery.

Now the community is stepping up to support his fight with the "Skate for Luca" fundraiser.

Luca’s parents, Kevin and Lauren Small, born and raised in Hamden and now Northford residents, are "faced with unimaginable and unpredictable challenges of raising (their two sons), managing medical/out of pocket expenses and doing all they can to navigate this extremely devastating reality."

"Our hopes for this fundraiser are to help raise money for Luca’s ongoing medical expenses, and show our support to the strong, brave and resilient Small family."

The family needs the support now more than ever: Recently, his family was given the news that despite years of chemotherapy treatments, Luca’s tumor was growing. His care was transferred to Boston Children’s Hospital where he is currently admitted and has undergone two additional brain surgeries.

Kevin and Lauren Small have been by side side every day, focusing on improving his health while attempting to keep some type of normalcy for their 3-year-old son, Matteo.

So far, a fundraiser to support Luca has raised $48,455 out of a $50,000 goal.

Luca is a child who brings "an indescribable joy to the lives of everyone who has the pleasure of knowing and loving him," the fundraiser website notes.

"He continues to amaze us every single day and so do his incredible parents who continue to show up for their boys despite their deep sadness, pain and fear of the unknown."

The "Skate for Luca" event will be Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Louis Astorino Ice Arena at 595 Mix Ave. in Hamden. Attendees will be able to skate with the Quinnipiac ice hockey team.

For more information on the event, go to the "Skate for Luca" page. You can also donate by going to Fund the First.