Teen with Rare Cancer Didn’t Want to Throw Away Surprise Make-A-Wish Gift, Then He Had Idea for Kids Like Him (Exclusive)

A remarkable act of selflessness has emerged from a young Pennsylvania boy’s battle against a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Seventeen-year-old Duncan Simmons, from Glenshaw, has turned his own experience into a philanthropic initiative aimed at helping fellow young patients undergoing treatment at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Duncan was diagnosed with Burkitt leukemia approximately two years ago, a condition that took his family by surprise as he had been perfectly healthy prior to his diagnosis. “It was just pain that slowly got worse,” Duncan explained in an interview. He described how the pain spread through his body, leading to a hospital visit after weeks without improvement. After two weeks of tests, doctors confirmed his diagnosis, and thus began a challenging six-month treatment regimen that involved intensive chemotherapy.

The chemotherapy severely weakened Duncan’s immune system, leading to numerous hospital visits when he faced fevers or complications. His father, Christopher Simmons, shared the daunting nature of the treatment process, explaining how the family spent weeks alternating between the hospital and home, constantly battling the side effects of treatment. During this time, Duncan faced complications such as mucositis, an inflammation making it difficult for him to eat.

After completing his treatment, Duncan was approached by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, eager to fulfil a wish for his perseverance. Initially uncertain of what to request, Duncan soon realised the opportunity to make a positive impact for other children fighting similar battles. “If it was between doing something that could be helpful to others or just throwing it away, the pragmatic solution would be to use it to help others,” he remarked.

This led to the establishment of Duncan’s Diner, a foundation designed to provide meal delivery gift cards to children currently receiving treatment on the ninth floor of the hospital. Reflecting on his own experience, Duncan recognised the importance of enjoying a comforting meal during the tough times in hospital. His father recounted those late-night jaunts to find food when cafeteria options were scarce, highlighting how something as simple as a meal could bring a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of cancer treatment.

With support from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and DoorDash, Duncan’s Diner was able to secure funding to purchase Sheetz gift cards for families in need. The foundation has successfully raised around £30,000, which translates to assistance for approximately 1,600 families since its inception. These donations enable children at the hospital to order their favourite meals, restoring a sense of pleasure during their treatment journeys.

Christopher Simmons noted how important this initiative is for providing comfort to families, suggesting that having a meal they enjoy can create a little moment of joy in an otherwise difficult day. “If someone wanted Chinese food, Indian food, pizza, or hot dogs, they could just order it and have it delivered right to the hospital,” he explained. Duncan’s aim is to help others feel a sense of hope and happiness, a stark contrast to the medical challenges they face.

Despite the accolades he has received for his initiative, Duncan prefers to divert attention away from himself. He wishes for people to focus on the impact of his foundation on the children and their families. His parents, however, are immensely proud of their son’s resilience in the face of adversity and his drive to make a difference for others.

As the transition from patient to survivor begins, with just five more medical visits over the next couple of years, Duncan’s family reflects on the strength they have gained through this ordeal. His mother, Neelie Simmons, pointed out her son’s mature handling of his diagnosis, stating, “Duncan handled this like you would hope a grown man would handle it. He was brave.”

The journey has not only enhanced their family’s bond but has also imbued them with a deeper appreciation for their community and the friendships forged during this trying time. As they look ahead, the Simmons family remains optimistic and committed to supporting Duncan in his future endeavors as both a survivor and a young philanthropist.