POMPANO BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - Thanks to Make-A-Wish, a Marjory Stoneman Douglas senior is now the proud owner of a new fancy set of wheels after beating cancer.
Joshua Rhodes was just 16 years old when he was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer — twice.
His mother, Maria, told 7News she’s thankful he’s now in remission after fears of losing him.
“I did. I did. I thought I was going to lose my son twice,” she said.
7News cameras were at an event for Rhodes to receive a new pimped out New York Giants-themed 2006 Hummer H3, Friday.
The big Giants fan was wearing a signed Victor Cruz jersey and hat at the unveiling.
“He had this little move called the ‘Salsa’ every time he made a touchdown,” Rhodes said. “He’ll be like, ‘Ta, ta, da, da, da, da.'”
The Hummer, decked out in all blue on the outside and inside, was surrounded by balloons.
“Please just tell me this is not a dream,” Rhodes said. “I swear it feels like a dream.”
Giants player John Jenkins, who lives in South Florida, was also present, making the surprise all the more special.
“He’s the first one I’ve ever met,” Rhodes said. “That’s why when he came out the car, that’s why I was like this ’cause I never thought I would actually see a Giants player in real life.”
The 6 foot 3 inch, 350 pound nose guard was moved by the toughness of the teenager.
“He’s given me hope, and he’s not even a football player, and he’s like become one of my heroes because the things that he’s gone through, man,” Jenkins said.
Rhodes couldn’t contain his excitement and love for the car.
“This thing is like a gift from the heaven,” he said. “I promise you this: this will be my car forever.”
Inspired by the organization’s work, Rhodes said he wants to be a part of Make-A-Wish as he gets older.
“I always tell him with Make-A-Wish, ‘You have this foundation now where you can touch another life, another person that may be going through the same thing you went through,'” Maria Rhodes said.
“Make-A-Wish is one of the most amazing organizations ever,” Rhodes said. “If you ever get a chance to witness them in action, please, I want you to. I did not see them make the car, but I’m glad I didn’t.”
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