Drive-by Birthday for a Warrior

More than 100 cars, a fire engine, and a special Paw Patrol “rescue” vehicle celebrated Troy Lanier’s 4th birthday with his family last month. After being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia last May, this powerful little Georgetown man has come through seven months of treatment, and is in maintenance care now. 

The celebration was hosted by L4 Cares and organized by Megan and Matt Beatty of Liberty Hill. Megan explains, “We have been doing parades and parties ever since the community got together to celebrate my daughter’s birthday. She was undergoing treatment for a brain tumor and, before that, we didn’t know things like this even existed.” Happily, their sweet little girl is out of treatment, vibrant, and attended the parade with her parents. 

Troy’s mom, Caitlin, was moved and humbled by the outpouring of love and support. “It is very overwhelming and I can’t believe this many people came out just for Troy. It’s been great. We’re never really going to be able to thank everybody the way we would want to, but we are very thankful.” 

Many of the parade vehicles stopped briefly to leave a present or balloons for Troy, which he immediately investigated as the parade wound down. Afterward, the family enjoyed a full day of celebration, including a joint birthday cake with his 12-year-old cousin, and a special photo shoot with Chase, Rocky, and Marshall.