The Story Behind Anthony’s Army

Anthony is turning 12 this year, and his story is one of incredible strength, resilience, and heart.

When Anthony was just 5 months old, he was diagnosed with a pediatric brain tumor. During the surgery to remove the tumor, he suffered a stroke, which left him with hemiparesis — paralysis on the right side of his body. From that moment on, Anthony’s life included years of therapies, doctor visits, and challenges that most children never have to face.

Because of the stroke and surgery, Anthony also lives with epilepsy and cortical vision impairment, which affects how his brain processes what he sees. These diagnoses could have defined his life in a limiting way, but Anthony has never let them stop him.

Through years of physical and occupational therapy, Anthony has worked incredibly hard to become strong, independent, and functional. His determination and work ethic inspire everyone who knows him. He shows up every day with a positive attitude, proving that challenges do not have to hold you back.

Instead of focusing on the obstacles he’s faced, Anthony has chosen to turn his experiences into something good.

Every year for his birthday, instead of asking for gifts, Anthony asks people to donate to Tap Cancer Out, an organization that raises money for cancer-fighting programs and supports families impacted by cancer. He knows firsthand how difficult medical journeys can be, and he wants to help others who are going through their own fight.

That’s how Anthony’s Army was born.

Through events like the Anthony’s Army Wiffle Ball Tournament, Anthony has rallied friends, family, and the community to come together for a cause bigger than himself. What began as a simple idea has grown into something powerful.

Over the past four years, Anthony has raised nearly $50,000 for Tap Cancer Out — an incredible accomplishment for someone who is just turning 12. This year, his goal is to reach the $50,000 milestone, and every team that signs up, every raffle ticket purchased, and every donation helps get him closer.

Anthony’s story is not just about the medical challenges he has faced. It’s about what he has chosen to do with them.

Despite everything he has gone through, Anthony continues to show the world what it means to be resilient, generous, and selfless — using his birthday not to receive gifts, but to give hope to others.

That’s the power of Anthony’s Army.

The Big 1-2 Wiffle Ball Classic: Play for a Purpose

Anthony's Birthday Bash

Team Leaderboard

Team Members