Celebrating Childhood Cancer Heroes: A Night of Heart, Hope, and Healing
On April 12th, the Dove Canyon Golf Club in Orange County, California, was filled with a warmth that matched the soft spring evening. The Celebrating Childhood Cancer Heroes gala, a fundraiser for the Gold Rush Cure Foundation, brought people together to honor three remarkable young heroes: Zeke Martin, Aaliyah Vejar, and Penny Morin. Their stories of courage, resilience, and joy in the face of pediatric cancer lit up the room, reminding everyone of the strength found in the youngest hearts.
The event was more than a fundraiser; it was a celebration of lives that shine through the darkest moments. The Gold Rush Cure Foundation supports children battling cancer and their families by delivering Pots of Gold—personalized gift delivery experiences filled with love and tailored treasures. That night, Zeke, Aaliyah, and Penny took center stage, each embodying a unique quality: determination, positivity, and joyfulness.
Zeke Martin: The Face of Determination
At 13, Zeke Martin has faced trials that would challenge anyone. Diagnosed with Hypodiploid Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in July 2023, he endured intense chemotherapy, a terrifying allergic reaction, and the news that standard treatments had failed. Yet Zeke’s spirit never faltered. With his brother Noah as his stem cell donor, he underwent a transplant at City of Hope, facing full-body radiation and months of isolation with remarkable strength. He completed sixth grade virtually, stayed connected with friends, and even found ways to laugh through the hardship. His POG, delivered by Marci of Gold Rush Cure, included a Lego Minecraft set and gifts from his favorite show, Big City Greens, bringing joy during his recovery. Zeke’s mother, Michelle, shared how Marci’s visit felt like a lifeline after months of isolation, offering understanding and connection. Now, a year post-transplant, Zeke is back in school, thriving, and eager for baseball games and theme park adventures. His refusal to give up inspired everyone at the gala.
Aaliyah Vejar: A Beacon of Positivity
Aaliyah Vejar, 14, brings light to every moment. Diagnosed with Stage 3 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in October 2023, she faced her diagnosis with a smile that never wavered. Whether trick-or-treating in the CHOC hospital lobby with her IV pole (named “Ivy”) dressed to match her Halloween costume, or shaving her head with laughter and style experiments, Aaliyah found joy in the smallest things. At Christmas, when low counts threatened holiday plans, she wore an inflatable costume to safely join family celebrations, her laughter lifting everyone. Her POG, delivered just before Christmas by Gold Rush Cure partners McKinley Elevator, included a Nike hoodie, Air Force 1s, and gifts for her siblings, Aariyana and Ezekiel, ensuring the whole family felt loved. For Aaliyah’s mother, Jennifer, this gesture “saved their Christmas” during a difficult time. Now accepted into her high school’s Medical Science Academy, Aaliyah dreams of becoming an oncology nurse at CHOC. Her ability to find hope and gratitude moved every heart at the gala.
Penny Morin: A Spark of Joyfulness
At 6 years old, Penny Morin is a burst of joy. Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in March 2023, shortly after her fourth birthday, she spent 31 days in the PICU, 18 in a medically induced coma. Yet her radiant spirit never dimmed. Known for her love of Hello Kitty, Disney Princesses, and dancing, Penny’s kindness shines as she checks in on friends also in treatment and greets clinic days with excitement. After a life-threatening infection triggered severe anxiety, Penny bravely worked to reclaim her social spark, moving from roly-poly hunts around the house to enjoying outings again. Her POG celebration at Corner Bakery was pure delight, with Penny unwrapping a Nintendo Switch, a Barbie Dreamhouse, and Legoland tickets with uncontainable excitement. For her mother, Christina, the POG arrived at a critical moment, giving Penny a way to connect during a tough chemo round. Penny’s gift for spreading joy left gala attendees smiling through tears, inspired to share her light.
A Night to Remember
As Zeke, Aaliyah, and Penny’s stories filled the room, the gala became a powerful reminder of what matters most. The Gold Rush Cure Foundation’s POGs brought tangible joy to these families, showing them they’re not alone. Guests gave generously, knowing every dollar would fund more POGs, more moments of connection, and more reminders of love.
The evening ended with a standing ovation for Zeke, Aaliyah, and Penny, whose awards as 2025 CCCH Heroes were met with cheers that carried beyond the walls of Dove Canyon Golf Club. Their stories—of determination that overcomes, positivity that transforms, and joy that uplifts—will stay with everyone who was there. For those who couldn’t attend, the invitation to support Gold Rush Cure Foundation remains: visit their website to donate or learn how to bring a POG to a child fighting cancer. It’s not just about the gifts—it’s about showing families like Zeke’s, Aaliyah’s, and Penny’s that their courage is seen, their battles are shared, and their light will always shine.
We are so proud of you, Zeke, Aaliyah, and Penny. Keep shining.
