Editor’s Note: A few weeks ago, our founder, Dr. Michael Weiner, received a birthday party invitation that had him near tears. It was from the family of a patient named Billy Cameron, whom he had treated over 35 years ago. “Billy was a great kid with a smile and wonderful attitude,” Dr. Weiner told us, “I’m really glad to see him doing so well.” Here’s more of the story, in the words of Billy’s mother, Michele.

On May 9, 2015, our family and 95 friends celebrated Billy Cameron’s 40th birthday with a big bash at the Skylands in Randolph, NJ. It was truly a celebration of his happy and fulfilled life which began on a rocky note 40 years ago. Diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth, Billy always confronted challenges with a big smile and a loving heart.

 At age 3 he was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia and began his three year  treatment at Babies Hospital*. Billy and Dr. Michael Weiner had  a very special relationship from the very beginning and his care of Billy and support to our family was invaluable. We never gave up hope for a cure, even when times were difficult. It’s hard to believe that was 37 years ago!

For the last four years he has lived in his own apartment with minimal supervision and takes great pride in working as a  DJ at friends’ parties. He has a great social life, including a girlfriend, and has inspired so many people along the way. Billy has been a source of love and pride to his parents, his two sisters, and his many friends.

Thanks, Dr. Weiner, for giving Billy and his family these wonderful years!!!!!

Billy Cameron, dancing with his mom at his 40th birthday party.

Did Dr. Weiner or another doctor here touch your life or that of a loved one? Let your favorite doctor know how you feel by making a donation in their honor.

_{*Now Columbia University Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital}