Cancer organization honors Washougal boy

A Washougal resident is among a group of 12 children and teens who were recently recognized for having courage, wisdom and grace in the face of serious medical challenges.

Joevanni Hernandez, 12, has aplastic anemia.

He was named a Children’s Cancer Association hero.

Hernandez and the 11 other youth were selected from the approximately 5,400 children and teens served by CCA programs.

The 12 heroes were honored during a ceremony May 26, at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, in Portland. The celebration included the release of doves.

Each child received a medal and a yearbook with biographies and portraits of all of the heroes.

They will continue to be celebrated during the next 12 months on CCA’s website, and they and their families will receive gifts from area merchants and restaurants.

Hernandez has been fighting aplastic anemia for almost three years. He aspires to be a pediatric oncologist someday, so he can help other children.

Hernandez’s younger brother, Federico, described him as his hero.

“When things get hard, he stands up,” Federico said.

For more information about the CCA, visit www.JoyRx.org.