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St. Jude Dream Home: 10-year-old celebrates his 8th year being cancer free

Posted at 6:53 PM, Apr 01, 2013
and last updated 2013-04-18 12:17:16-04

Williamsburg, Va. - If you knew this young man's story you would dance, too!

Sebastian Catasus has a good reason to dance. He is 8 years cancer free! He credits his cancer treatment at St. Jude for the good news.

In December of 2004, Sebastian was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. His doctor recommended St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Within hours, the entire family was flown in to begin treatment.

He says he witnessed firsthand the lifesaving work that happens at St. Jude.

"I'll go in and see these kids are that are sick, then maybe next time I come I’ll see the same kid and they'll look amazing, like they really get cured,” says Sebastian.

Sebastian and his mom Andrea walk the halls of his elementary school knowing it's been quite the journey restoring his good health.

His days of chemotherapy and radiation are over. According to his teachers, he celebrates every day at school as if it's a gift.

“Stopping short of ever wishing his experience for anyone, I do think it really is a gift to have somebody with his strength of character as an ambassador for this journey that other families are going through,” says Emily Bartolotta, a teacher.

And on the lighter side, Sebastian has a way of keeping his teachers in stitches.

While Sebastian keeps his teachers entertained with his big personality, his manner in a way provides a lesson not lost on his instructors.

"I think what I see most is embrace your life, go for it, that fearless nature, have fun,” says Kerri Difiore, drama teacher.

Most mornings, Sebastian has fun providing the recess forecast for his fellow students at Waller Mill Elementary.

But right now, we predict nothing but sunny skies and no chance of rain for Sebastian, and he predicts the same for his friends at St. Jude.

"They are really amazing at doing their job; they make the kids feel happy,” says Sebastian.

You can help children like Sebastian by reserving your 100 dollar ticket for your chance to win this year's Saint Jude Dream Home in Virginia Beach.

Reserve your ticket by calling 1-800-851-5323. The big drawing is Sunday April 21st!

Click here for more information.