Two three-year-old best friends who fought cancer together finally had the chance to enjoy an adorable reunion outside the hospital.
Two kids, Payson Altice and Mack Porter underwent treatment for different forms of cancer at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. There, they became inseparable.
Earlier this summer, however, the children were sent home and they spent weeks away and separated. Fortunately, their parents knew how precious their friendship is and what it means to them and arranged a sweet reunion.
In September 2020, weeks after her third birthday, little Payson was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Mack, her best bud, was diagnosed with Stage 3 Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma this January.
Although they were both treated at the same hospital, most of the time they were they were isolated because of the COVID — 19 pandemic.
Payson’s mom, Traci Barrett, told Today:
“Payson was so isolated. It was so hard to meet people because of the pandemic. She was asking for new toys every five minutes.”
“And then Mack came along!”
Tracy was incredibly grateful that her child found a true friend in the face of Mack.
Mack’s mom, Dani Porter, said:
“I just knew Mack would like her.”
Shortly after their first meeting, the two kids started playing together constantly. Also, their mutual love for Peppa Pig helped them bond. They taught one another things about dancing and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Thankfully, the sweet little BFFs have gone into remission, and doctors released them from the hospital. But, during the time they were separated, they truly missed each other’s company. Ms. Porter explained:
“Every morning, his first question was, ‘When can I play with Payson?’”
When the two of them finally got to meet outside the hospital, their parents captured the heart-melting moment as Mack gave Payson a bouquet of flowers, and they hugged each other warmly and friendly.
Later, they were caught dancing, looking happier than ever.
Mack’s mom told ABC News:
“That was a blessing to just watch our children be children.”
Payson’s mom added:
“During these scary and hard times, no matter what, just look to the children because they’ll lead the way.”
The two best friends have continued to meet up for playdates. They are now excited that they will start going to preschool this fall.
