The family of Pedro Roman, a Valencia High school football player with leukemia, threw him a surprise birthday car parade Saturday afternoon.

Watch the Facebook Live here.

The drive-thru parade took place at Central Park on Pedro’s actual 17th birthday, and was hosted by close family friend Alana Altmayer. The event began around 2 p.m., and allowed dozens of cars to drive through the park to celebrate Pedro and support his family. He was told prior that he would be greeted by only a small circle of family members to open gifts at the basketball court. 

“This kid literally fought for his life; he’s battled fevers, infections and bleeding,” said Altmayer in a statement Friday. “He’s the definition of a warrior.”

Roman was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia back in September 2019, and a GoFundMe was set up by Altmayer to help fund Roman’s medical bills. He has spent the last few months at City of Hope Medical Center and his family wanted to do something really special for him this year.

“(It’s) really glad to see his smile and feel it, it’s pretty awesome,” Altmayer said Saturday.

See related: Valencia High Football Player With Leukemia Seeks Bone Marrow Donation 

His family invited many close family members and friends, as well as those in the community who may not know Pedro personally, but just wanted to show their support. 

In an astounding and phenomenal effort, Pedro Roman has officially entered remission as of Dec. 10. He will be monitored for the next 6 to 12 months and if all goes well, he will no longer require the bone marrow transplant that his family was searching for earlier this year. 

“It was a miracle; a literal miracle,” stated Altmayer. 

Pedro is more than excited to see his fellow Valencia high school students encourage him in his journey to recovery.

“I plan on just to work out and get better; just to keep on moving forward,” Pedro stated.

Funds can still be donated to the GoFundMe page here.

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