Unwavering support for Jose continues in Slinger

Post date: May 24, 2016 2:11:12 PM

By: Hannah Stadel, Staff Writer

Posted May 24th, 2016

Many of us know Jose Rivera, Slinger 8th grader. Back in February he received a tragic diagnosis of cancer, which has since greatly impacted this community. Jose has a very rare and fast spreading bone cancer called metastatic mesenchymal chondrosarcoma and a second type of cancer as well. In the midst of such dismaying news, his home community in Slinger has rallied around him to provide a truly incredible source of support.

The day Slinger Middle School learned the diagnosis of their peer was a tragic day, without much laughter. Especially on the eighth grade floor, his close friends, teachers and acquaintances were struck by the suddenness and severity. Ever since, they’ve been relentless in their pursuit of hope. On March 18th DI3C (Do I Care Command Club), a club at the middle school devoted to showing kindness to others, organized a three on three basketball tournament called Hoop it Up for Jose where they raised over $1,500. On May 15th there was a fundraiser at Veterans Park in Allenton for Jose featuring a lip sync battle. Numerous other events have taken place, and there are plans for an upcoming ‘amazing race’ and even a Zumbathon. Jose has been featured on Fox 6 and there’s a Facebook page, and wristbands and t-shirts are sold for Team Jose, what the community supporting Jose is referred to as. The overwhelming amount of love and help the Rivera family has received in the past months is a testament to the power of a close community and is a something to be endlessly grateful for.