Nonna 'emotional' as Vaughan grandson, 5, picked up for school by firefighters

Mateo in remission after being diagnosed with leukemia 2 years ago

Yorkregion.com
March 20, 2018
Tim Kelly

With his Nonna Josie proudly looking on, five-year-old Mateo donned his specially made firefighter coat, a gift, as he celebrated his birthday with the Vaughan Fire and Rescue Services.

"It's emotional -- today's a special day, my grandson's alive and he looks good and he's happy," Josie said of the little boy who has battled leukemia since the June day in 2016 when he was diagnosed with the deadly disease.

His shocked parents, Judy and Joe --they didn't want their last names used -- of Vellore Woods in Woodbridge, said they've received plenty of support as they've helped their young son battle the disease.

Matteo has been in remission from leukemia since July 2017 but Judy said that first year was “very difficult. We were in and out of hospitals, there were a lot of infections, Mateo lost a lot of weight. The treatment has been going very well lately,” Judy said.

Judy and Joe both said SickKids has been amazing and they are pleased with all the efforts that have been made.

Tuesday was a great day for the entire family as they marked a big milestone for Mateo.

The young boy was presented with a birthday cake, received a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday, and was feted by a large group of fire personnel.

“It just blew my mind, it’s so wonderful, we’re just touched,” said Judy of all the work put in by the firefighters.

Fire Chief Larry Bentley and Deputy Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi were on hand to take in the day with Mateo and “welcome” him to the service.

“We say enough about SickKids. Until it (illness) affects you, you don’t understand. He had multiple blood transfusions,” said Judy.

Mateo topped off his big day by getting to ride in the fire truck all the way to his elementary school where he was dropped off. He made quite the entrance on his way into school.