A Rhode Island boy learned last year that he had stage 4 of a rare cancer, causing him to decide his goal was to become famous all over the world. Since then, 8-year-old Dorian Murray has received global social media support from thousands of people who have posted messages and photos on social networks including Facebook and Twitter via the hashtag #DStrong.
Dorian was four years old when he received a diagnosis for a rare cancer known as rhabdomyosarcoma, according to CBS News. It affects infants, children, and adolescents.
The boy told WPRI that his cancer treatments are very difficult. That is because they include many shots and medications.
Last December a checkup discovered cancer cells in Dorian's spinal fluid. The family then made the tough decision that they would stop his treatments soon after New Year's Day.
A few days ago Dorian told his Dad that he had a goal he wanted to come true. Dorian's mother Melissa Murray shared that his wish was to become famous throughout the world including he Great Wall of China.
A trip to China would be difficult for Dorian due to the distance. Thus, Dorian tweaked his goal to become as famous as possible during his lifetime.
Dorian's family made a few posts on Facebook and Twitter. After that netizens around the world responded to the hashtag #DStrong.
This week New England Patriots' tight tend Rob "Gronk" Gronkowski visited the young cancer patient and signed a #dstrong T-shirt, according to Boston. Dorian has also received support from people in countries such as France, Italy, Switzerland, and Japan who tell him to keep fighting.
The 8-year-old explained that the hashtag #DStrong is like a logo. It encourages people to stay strong for "D."
People around the world are posting photographs of themselves holding up a sign that reads "#DStong." The photos show they support Dorian and want his dream to come true.
Dorian's parents want to make their son as comfy and happy during the next weeks. His mother also hopes people will learn more about pediatric cancer, which has about a 20 percent survival rate and requires more funding.
A GoFundMe crowdfunding page has been launched for the Murray family. It will help to cover high medical expenses.