EDMONTON – Adam Cripps is leaving a legacy he hopes will help other kids better deal with similar hardships he has faced.
The Edmonton teenager has been diagnosed with cancer on four separate occasions.
He’s fought and beat the disease three times.
Last year, Adam was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. The disease has since moved to his lungs, liver and bones. He’s lost his bladder, prostate and left leg, but not his spirit.
“Even though he has the worst problems he’s just that one person who lights up the room with a smile,” says Gabriella Boon, Adam’s best friend.
Adam’s family thought his 15th birthday would be his last, so they organized a celebration called ‘Adamstock’ to commemorate the teenager. It’s an event modeled after Adam’s favourite festival, ‘Boonstock’.
“He’s always had backstage passes. We would sit against the stage and socialize with bands. He just loves music,” explains Tamara Stenhouse, Adam’s mom.
As he has in the past, Adam has battled the disease with dignity and unwavering perseverance. On Saturday, he celebrated his 16th birthday, and for the second year in a row ‘Adamstock’ was organized.
“He’s been an inspiration to so many and we just want him to have a legacy,” says Daris Kieley, Adam’s aunt.
Adam has made it clear he wants the event to continue no matter what his future entails.
In the past, funds raised during ‘Adamstock’ went to help the Cripps’ family make the most of the time they have left with the 16-year-old. In the future, money raised will help other families facing similar circumstances do the same.
“So many more worries. If we can help other people not have to worry about small things, that’d be amazing,” says Stenhouse.
-With files from Global News reporter Quinn Ohler
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