DELCAMBRE, La. (KLFY) -- A heartwarming event unfolded Saturday in Delcambre during the 4th annual Anything Over Rice Cookoff, where 11-year-old Fisher Melder was surprised with his very own kayak by the nonprofit organization Dreams Come True of Louisiana. Proceeds from the cookoff go to Dreams Come True, which helps fulfill dreams for children with life-threatening illnesses.
Melder is battling stage 3 brain cancer. He was surprised with the kayak after being jokingly told he would need to wait a few months for the boat to arrive. Becky Prejean, executive director of Dreams Come True of Louisiana, described Fisher as resilient and strong.
"Fisher is 11 years old, and he was diagnosed with a type of brain cancer, stage 3 medulloblastoma. He is a trooper, and he is precious," Prejean said.
Melder has been at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital for eight months battling the disease but returned home a few weeks ago. Prejean said the organization's goal is to give kids hope and faith that they will win their battles.
"He really could not believe it — his little face, and so appreciative. We take so much for granted, but we just love for them to hold on to that hope," Prejean said.
She said while the surprise may not have meant as much to others, it means a great deal to kids battling cancer. She said all the world needs is a smile.
"There are a lot of sick kids — people are not aware of this. They have no idea. So many things we take for granted mean so much to their little lives. I call it sunshine," Prejean said.
If you would like to donate to Dreams Come True of Louisiana, visit dctofla.com.
