Nonprofit helps young cancer patient dance to express himself

Cancer is a difficult battle for everyone, but 6-year-old Jack Gannon doesn’t let the fight define him as he dances through his treatment.

“Jack, when he was about 4 years old, started a hip-hop class,” said Jack’s mother, Lauren. “He likes Michael Jackson, Olivia Rodrigo. He loves Taylor Swift and is always having fun at home.

But last February, the then 5-year-old was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Since then, Jack has endured surgeries, chemotherapy and lengthy hospital stays.

“It’s been quite a year,” his mother said. “He was in and out of the hospital. He is tired and overall not feeling well.

The treatment plan was dubbed “Jack Attack,” which didn’t stop him from doing what he loves most.

Dancing.

“Throughout our building, we have several stations where we feature different genres of music and dance styles,” explained Loudonville Elementary School Principal Scott Thompson.

Jack’s brother Jude and dozens of classmates were Groovin’ with The Gannons Friday, a dance marathon to help Jack as he approaches the halfway point of a 26-month treatment plan.

“Dancing is something that will release those emotions,” said Jocelyn of Dancers Against Cancer. “Whether it’s mental, physical, or emotional pain, dance helps you express it.”

DAC is a non-profit organization that helps dancers battling cancer, young and old, keep up with their dance classes while undergoing treatment.

The Gannons recently received a $10,000 donation from the organization.

“Whatever makes him happy and makes him smile,” Lauren said. “We just want to support him 100 percent.”