At the age of two, Simon was diagnosed with autism. In September 2018, Simon’s parents enrolled in the Lerner School for Autism, the center’s facility that focuses on teaching communication, play, socialization and developmentally appropriate skills.
“With autism, you’re always worried about regression,” notes Simon’s mother, Autumn. “It is essential that you start treatment, and the sooner the better.”
However, just three months after Simon was diagnosed with autism, another non-life diagnosis emerged: Simon also had B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of childhood cancer.
Fortunately, 28 days after the diagnosis, her cancer had started to heal. But because of COVID-19, he was unable to ring the bell at the children’s hospital to mark the end of his cancer treatment.
Instead, he was treated to a surprise truck convoy, which was perfect for Simon, who dreams of being a firefighter.
Family and friends drove past more than 50 cars, raising signs, honking and cheering. First responders turned on their headlights and sounded the little fireman’s siren. Simon even got a toy fire truck and gift bag from the first responder himself.
The whole show looked like something out of a movie. This not only marked the end of his chemotherapy, it was also Simon’s fifth birthday. It was, to say the least, a perfect double celebration.
