Dozens turn out to celebrate 5-year-old cancer survivor in Gloucester County

SEWELL, N.J. - It was quite a day for a little boy in New Jersey who is finally home after months in the hospital. Dozens of people in Sewell turned out to make sure Gavin Todd found out just how much he’s loved.

In October, 5-year-old Gavin was diagnosed with cancer. He spent the holidays at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, but now he is cancer-free.

There were cheers, tears and hugs, all for the brave boy who has been through so much, who came home to a hero’s welcome. "I kicked cancer’s butt!" Gavin exclaimed.

His mom, Mary Todd, emotional over the outpouring, said, "It means the world to us to see him up and running around and full of all the energy that he always had. Back to being himself. It means the world to us."

Family friend, Kathleen Weidenmiller, added, "To be able to celebrate that he is clear and that chemo is done – we’re just so proud of him!"

People came from all ages to celebrate Gavin, thanks in part to Pop Pop Nardiello, a man who helps brighten the lives of so many kids with cancer.

"My only goal is to put smiles on the faces of these children who have had their smiles taken away by childhood cancer," Nardiello explained.

Mary talked about how overwhelmed her family is by everyone’s love and support, "You know, you expect your family and friends to be there for you, but to see so many people turn out for you - they don’t even personally know you, they just want to support you because you’re from the same community. It’s really moving!"

Gavin’s T-ball coach, Alyssa Raymond, is also a cancer survivor and says the new year is off to an amazing start for both of them.

"He was put on my team for a reason and now, look, we get to start the 2025 baseball season as cancer fighters and warriors in remission," Raymond said.