Two patients at Riley Children’s Health became fast friends when they found out that they had the same type of cancer.
Cade Thompson was enjoying the summer of 2020 when a knee injury led to an osteosarcoma diagnosis, ending his promising football career. Meanwhile, volleyball player Vivian Eagle received the same diagnosis at the beginning of 2022. Both live in Indiana.
Vivian’s mother, a high school teacher, introduced her daughter to the other student when she learned that he had the same kind of bone cancer. The two became friends immediately.
“We just connected,” Vivian told People. She added, “We’ve only known each other for a year, but it feels like we’ve known each other our whole lives.”
Although Cade and Vivian are not romantically involved, the older teen wanted to do something special for his friend’s high school prom. After all, the 17-year-old had just completed her chemo treatments. So, Cade planned an elaborate promposal, which included a massive sign. Obviously, Vivian accepted!
“She deserved it,” said Cade. “We’ve both been through a lot. Seeing her happy made me happy.”
Since the color for osteosarcoma awareness is yellow, the students decided that’s what they would wear to the prom. Vivian fell in love with a gorgeous yellow gown, but it was way too expensive for her family’s budget. Thankfully, when the store owner heard the teenager’s story, she gave her the dress as a gift.
Before heading to the dance, Cade and Vivian made a stop at the hospital where they were treated to say “thank you” for the cancer care they received.
“They’re the reason that we’re here today,” said Cade. “I feel like I owe that to them for them to see me healthy.”
As for the prom itself, Vivian said she had the time of her life.
“I forgot about my leg,” she gushed. “I was bouncing around, jumping around. We were just screaming all the songs. It was so fun.”
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