On November 23, 2024, Swampscott High School’s annual flag football game against Marblehead will be more than just a fierce competition between rivals. This year, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Walker family, whose 3-year-old son, River, is bravely fighting medulloblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. The community’s support for the Walkers during this challenging time has been unwavering, and the flag football game is another opportunity to rally around them. Contingent on his health, River is expected to flip the coin toss to start the game.

River's Diagnosis and Treatment

River Walker’s life changed dramatically in November 2023 when he was diagnosed with medulloblastoma. The cancer affects fewer than 500 people annually in the United States, primarily children. It develops in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination, and can spread quickly throughout the brain and spinal cord. River's diagnosis came just before Thanksgiving, and emergency surgery was performed to remove part of the tumor.

In December 2023, River’s parents, Meghan Fisher Walker and Frazer Walker, relocated from Florida to Memphis, Tennessee, so River could receive treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. River underwent a second surgery in mid-December, which successfully removed most of the remaining tumor. From January 2024 onward, River began an intensive chemotherapy regimen, and in September 2024, he completed chemotherapy and began radiation treatment.

River will be finishing his radiation therapy in October and will be returning to Swampscott for the holiday season. His journey has been long and grueling, but it’s far from over. As River turns three years old, he continues to fight with the strength and determination that have defined his battle.

The Walker Family's Strength

Meghan and Frazer Walker have faced immense challenges since River’s diagnosis. Meghan, a 2013 Swampscott High graduate, was pregnant with twins, Atlas and Sullivan, born in May 2024, when River fell ill. Frazer, a ship engineer, frequently works at sea, making it hard to be with the family during River’s treatment.

The Walkers have had to navigate the complexities of raising a young family, battling cancer, and managing the emotional and financial toll of relocating to Memphis. The support of their community, both in Swampscott and beyond, has been vital to their strength. Friends, family, and neighbors have rallied to provide emotional, financial, and practical assistance as the Walkers face these hardships.

How the Community Can Help

Swampscott has a long-standing tradition of coming together in times of need, and the flag football game is another way the town is stepping up. Proceeds from the event will help the Walker family with medical expenses and living costs as they finish their journey at St. Jude’s and prepare to move back to New England to be closer to family. River’s fight has touched the hearts of many, and the community's support has been a lifeline for the Walkers during their most challenging moments.

You can follow River’s journey and learn more about how to help by visiting riverwalk2024.com and following his Instagram account, @river_w_strong. The Walker family's story is one of perseverance, love, and hope. As River continues his treatment, the community’s involvement makes all the difference.

Join us at the Swampscott flag football game on November 23 to show your support for River, the Walker family, and their brave fight against childhood cancer.