Canton 8th Graders Raise Funds for Friend With Cancer

When it came time to complete a school project that emphasizes giving back to the community, Canton 8th grader Keegan Toland didn't have to search for a cause. 

With his close friend Hunter Miller battling a rare form of bone cancer, the choice was obvious. Toland and 8th grader Jake Sullivan teamed up to run a benefit. 

"I thought it would be a good idea to do a fundraiser for him," Toland said. 

The boys are still very close friends even though Hunter moved to Avon a few years ago. 

In January, Hunter and his mother Deb learned he had a tumor in his left tibia. It was a rare form of osteosarcoma. On April 24 he had a successful surgery to remove his knee and part of his tibia, replacing them with a titanium prosthetic device. He will also continue a chemo regiment for the next 6 months. 

With all the family is going through, including medical, travel and other expenses, Toland and Sullivan decided to ride their bicycles along the Farmington River Trail and Farmington Canal Heritage Trail from Canton to Northampton, Mass. as part of the 8th grade Odyssey Project at Canton Middle School. 

It's an effort they've since dubbed "Miles for Miller." 

Joining them where Keegan's brother Shane Toland and Nick Grabowski.

After fliers were sent out from Canton Middle School and others, the response for per-mile sponsors was overwhelming. 

Local resident Brian Deal of Bradway Financial even put some additional resources into the effort and connected the boys with organizations to help the boys with bike tune-ups and more.  

In addition to sponsors many have donated additional funds for the effort, which has raised more than $3,000. 

Toland said the trip was long and he's not an avid cyclist but was determined to finish. 

"I worked to get it done," he said. "I didn't want to disappoint him." 

The timing of the ride was significant taking place on mother's Day to honor Deb Miller. 

The day, Keegan's mom Tracy said, was "in honor of Deb and all she has done and continues to do for Hunter and for being the incredible mom she is." 

Deb Miller is grateful for this effort and many others. 

"Hunter and I were beyond touched by this fund raising effort," Deb Miller said. "Keegan and Hunter go back a long way and have remained close friends, even after our move to Avon, which has meant a lot to Hunter. Jake, Shane and Nick are amazing as well, showing how much good can come from banning together to support a cause...and a friend in need. We are forever grateful to everyone who supported the boys in their quest and look forward to thanking them in person."

While the 60-mile ride benefitted, it was also held to raise awareness for childhood cancer.

It's also not too late to donate. Those interested in helping the family can contact Tracy Toland at tracytoland@comcast.net for details. 

Deb Miller is grateful for all the support and offered some hope during this ordeal.

"We have had very positive feedback from the Doctors letting us know that the chemotherapy is working and he is on the right track towards remission," she said. "Hunter has been an absolute champ during this entire journey. He continues to amaze us all with his strength and determination. He is my inspiration — every day."