Funeral held for Alabama teen Will Roberts whose cancer journey inspired thousands
By Lynne Keenum
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TUSCALOOSA, Alabama (WVTM) — The funeral for Tuscaloosa County teen Will Roberts, whose courageous battle with stage 4 bone cancer inspired supporters around the world, was held Saturday in Tuscaloosa.
Roberts, 15, of Ralph, died July 23 at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego after an 18-month battle with stage 4 osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer.
His journey drew national attention after his video went viral on social media in which he asked for help accessing an experimental treatment. Thousands of people across Alabama and beyond followed his story, donated to his care and prayed for his recovery.
Even after losing a leg to cancer, Roberts continued to encourage others with his faith, optimism and determination.
On Wednesday, Gov. Kay Ivey proclaimed Aug. 1 as Will Roberts Day in Alabama, honoring the teenager’s bravery and the inspiration he provided throughout his fight against cancer. “Alabama is remembering Will as a brave young man whose courage inspired us all,” said Ivey. “He inspired me, and he inspired us all.”
Roberts was the son of Alabama Law Enforcement Agency State Bureau of Investigation Capt. Jason Roberts and his wife, Brittney. He is also survived by his younger sister, Charlie.
Public visitation was held Saturday morning followed by the funeral service at noon at Shelton State Community College Gymnasium, 9500 Old Greensboro Road in Tuscaloosa. Burial is at Wesley Chapel Cemetery in Ralph.
Magnolia Chapel South Funeral Home livestreamed the service for those unable to attend in person.
The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to organizations supporting childhood cancer research and families facing pediatric cancer: Aveni Foundation or Beats the Odds Sarcoma.
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