The small town of St. George, Ont. will switch on their Christmas lights in October once again -- a sombre tribute to a seven-year-old boy whose dying wish to celebrate one last holiday season touched millions around the world one year ago.
Evan Leversage battled an aggressive, inoperable brain tumour for five years. Last fall, doctors told his family he was not likely to see Dec. 25.
The community pulled together an early Christmas parade, complete with artificial snow, Santa riding his sleigh, and a smiling Evan on his lap. The heartwarming tribute drew international attention. His family received messages of support from as far away as Australia.
The courageous boy who is remembered for his infectious laugh and quirky sense of humour died on Dec. 6 last year in hospice care, cradled in his mother’s arms.
“It’s been a rough year, I’m not going to lie,” Evan’s mother Nicole Wellwood told CTV Kitchener.
Evan’s family and community members want to keep his memory alive with the early tribute to his favourite holiday. A toy drive will also be held to help Brant County families in need, something Evan’s mother says would have made him happy.
“He was one to bring joy, and for him to know other children will have a fabulous Christmas, that would really mean the world to him,” said Wellwood.
Evan’s Legacy, a fund supporting research into pediatric brain cancer at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto has also raised $35,000 in donations.
“I think it’s the nicest thing for (Evan’s mother) Nicole to know that her son is not forgotten. As a mother, I think that’s something you want, to have people keep speaking his name,” said local resident Joni Bouma.
Evan’s family says today is about coming together and reflecting on last year’s magic. They plan to tour the neighbourhood to look at the lights shining in his honour.
“Evan is close to our hearts,” said Wellwood. “It doesn’t make it less sad, but we remember him.”
With a report from CTV Kitchener's Alex Pinto.
