Portville 10-Year-Old Heath Pittman Battles Cancer for Second Time as Community Rallies

 A 10-year-old fifth grader from Portville, New York, is bravely facing cancer for the second time after four years in remission, prompting his family to launch a GoFundMe fundraiser to help with mounting medical and living expenses.

Heath Pittman was first diagnosed at just 4 years old with stage 3 embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer. During his initial battle, Heath endured 42 weeks of intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Through strength beyond his years, he achieved remission, giving his family and community hope after a long and difficult journey.

Now, four years later, Heath has been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. The relapse has brought renewed heartbreak, but also renewed determination as he begins another fight for his life.

His family has created a fundraiser titled “Help 10-year-old Heath Pittman battle cancer again” to assist with medical expenses, travel costs for treatments, and everyday living expenses during this challenging time. Cancer treatment often requires frequent hospital visits, specialized care, and time away from work for parents and caregivers — creating significant financial strain alongside the emotional toll.

Portville, a small village in Cattaraugus County near the Pennsylvania border, previously rallied around Heath during his first diagnosis. Once again, neighbors, friends, classmates, and even strangers are stepping forward with prayers, encouragement, and donations to support the Pittman family. Community members describe Heath as resilient, courageous, and full of heart — a young boy who continues to inspire those around him despite unimaginable challenges.

Childhood cancer affects approximately 15,000 children in the United States each year, with conditions like rhabdomyosarcoma and osteosarcoma considered rare and requiring aggressive treatment plans. Families navigating these diagnoses often face not only medical uncertainty but also logistical and financial burdens.

As Heath begins this new chapter in his fight, his family remains focused on hope, strength, and faith. The outpouring of community support serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, no family fights alone.

More US Obituary

1. Jacob “Jake” Alan Mahan, 27, Killed in Tippecanoe County Crash; Delphi Family Grieves

2. Coast Guard Veteran Yohan Sanchez, Wife and Two Children Die in Suspected Carbon Monoxide Tragedy in Ocala