COPPERAS COVE, TX — People stopped by Raising Cane's in Copperas Cove to honor a five-year-old who passed away from cancer and raise money for his memorial scholarship fund.
Connor Hedge would have turned nine years old today.
"Connor is, he was such a joy you can see it in his pictures," said Julie Moser, founder and executive director of Pink Warrior Angles of Texas. The boy, who impacted the lives of many in Copperas Cove, passed away from cancer just three years ago.
"For being five, almost six, he just took life with one step in front of the other at 5 years old," said Moser.
And on Tuesday, not only did people celebrate his birthday, the organization that had a hand in helping him during his last few months, Pink Warrior Angels of Texas, also celebrated its birthday.
"So it is his third heavenly birthday. And we are celebrating him, we are celebrating us and our community," said Moser.
Connor's family has since moved out of the Lone Star State. However, Central Texas News Now had the chance to speak with his mother over FaceTime about the ongoing support for her son.
"I get told that a lot, that he made an impact worldwide. And that brings so much relief to my soul," said Kristen Hedge, Connor's mom.
In honor of his birthday, the organization also hosted a fundraiser and toy drive.
"So Connor's mom has always had a toy drive for him after he had passed," said Moser. "So the toy drive and books or any donations that come in will go back to the Dell Children's Hospital in Austin as it's where one of his last primary spots for having treatment."
"We also started the Connor Hedge Memorial Scholarship. It is for children that have either had cancer or are going through cancer or their siblings. They can get, right now we're starting with a thousand dollar scholarship to help them with school," said Kristen.
And Connor's mom thanks the nonprofit for their support. "I want to say thank you so much Pink Warrior Angels. Happy birthday to both Connor and PWA Texas. I am so thankful for you guys," said Kristen.
Connor's family also hosted a toy drive in Florida on Tuesday in his honor and those donations will go to the Children's Cancer Center of Tampa.
For more information on how to get involved, click here.
