Vancouver Whitecaps FC is honoured to have Jonah Berger as Kid Captain of the club's home match against Toronto FC on September 5, as part of Major League Soccer's Kick Childhood Cancer awarneness and fundraising campaign.
Jonah is a happy and active 12-year-old who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2020. He had surgery to remove the brain tumour at BC Children's Hospital (BCCH) but unfortunately, lost his ability to walk as a result of his illness. Jonah moved to Sunny Hill Rehabilitation Hospital where he worked to regain his mobility after the surgery, then travelled to Seattle to receive Proton Radiation Therapy for six weeks. He is now back in Vancouver and undergoing chemotherapy at BCCH until May 2021.
Jonah's journey is undoubtedly a long one but he continues to smile, laugh and inspire his loved ones. Jonah is a previous member of the Vancouver Athletic Football Club where he enjoyed playing as both a striker and goalkeeper. He also loved to bike, and play volleyball and video games with his friends. Jonah is happy being back at home with his dog Storm and his older brother Noah as he continues with his treatment.
"I love the Whitecaps and I am excited to help other kids kick cancer," said Jonah. The Berger family also shared that they have always been 'Caps fans and are excited that Jonah has been named Kid Captain, especially during Kick Childhood Cancer month.
The seventh annual Kick Childhood Cancer campaign is a MLS WORKS initiative as part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, aimed at highlighting research efforts to find cures for all types of childhood cancer and provide support to one of the most vulnerable populations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
MLS WORKS has teamed with league partner Continental Tire to raise awareness and funds in the battle against childhood cancer. Click here to learn more about the fundraising and awareness campaign.
