Santa Clarita Valley residents are invited to rally behind a 3-year-old boy and his fight against Leukemia this March in a 5K fundraiser.

Community members can participate in the event to support Kaden Schanfarber, a boy who was 2 when when he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in September 2016.

He is currently being treated at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, according to Kaden’s mother, Danyelle Paradis-Schanfarber.

“Kaden’s treatment consists of weekly chemotherapy treatments,” said Paradis-Schanfarber. “Kaden is halfway through the delayed intensification phase of treatment which focuses on killing remaining cancer cells. Boys with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia are typically treated for a length of 3 years.”

A fundraiser was held in October to help pay for Kaden’s medication, but with about two more years of treatment expected, the bills continue to pile on.

Organized by Mel Vovk, a friend and co-worker of Kaden’s aunt, Nikki Oerum, the 5K will be held at the Paseo Club, where Oerum and some of the event organizers work.

“While working at the Paseo Club, Nikki has done so much not just for the members and their families when in need, but also for the community at large,” said Seema Shah, a friend of Oerum’s and event participant. “This is a great way for her friends and co-workers to show their appreciation while supporting her and, by extension, her family.”

The “Kisses For Kaden 5K” will be held on Saturday, March 4 at the Paseo Club in Valencia.

Residents can walk or run the untimed 3.1 miles and are asked to wear green or gold in support of Kaden’s affinity for trash trucks.

Organizers suggest a minimum donation of $15 at the event, but general donations can also be made here. There is also a GoFundMe campaign for the Schanfarber family, and donations can still be made here. For more event details, click here.