Back in the Game: Student Athlete Plays Ball Again After Cancer, Limb Loss
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Growing up, Hampton senior Aiden Hanna’s world revolved around baseball. His passion for the sport was ignited when he played T-Ball at the age of five. He has never missed a summer since. But a sudden change in his health would soon test his resilience and alter his life forever.
While chasing a routine fly ball, Aiden noticed something was wrong with his left leg. Normally confident in his movements, he found himself unable to reach the catch. After the game, he confided in his mother, Tracy, that his ankle was painful and that he couldn’t lift his foot.
Initial X-rays didn’t show any issues, so the family decided to seek a second opinion with an orthopedic surgeon. The surgeon told Tracy to call her husband and then delivered the heartbreaking news: “Aiden has osteosarcoma.”
This moment marked a turning point for Aiden and his family, setting them on a journey of hope, resilience, and fighting against the odds.
Aiden started chemotherapy and underwent surgery. By spring 2023, he received the positive news that he was free of cancer. However, a few months later, the cancer returned, this time affecting his other leg. Another round of chemotherapy kept it under control—until a tumor reappeared in his left leg. Confronted with a difficult decision, Aiden and his family had to determine their next step.
His mother told CBS News that they left the decision up to him, stressing that they didn’t want Aiden to face the consequences of someone else’s choice. But Aiden understood he had to do whatever was necessary to save his life, even if that meant amputating his leg.
In August, Aiden’s left leg was amputated below the knee. Many might have dwelled on what they lost, but Aiden did not. Just two months later, he confidently walked across Hampton’s football field during homecoming.
During that winter, Aiden received a prosthetic blade, which enabled him to resume training. One day on the treadmill, he had a new goal in mind. He thought that he had one more season left, so he shouldn’t limit himself. He then messaged his coach, Kellen Wheeler, saying that he planned to play in the spring. His coach was deeply moved by the message, to the point of tears.
For Aiden, returning to baseball meant more than just the sport itself; it was about reconnecting with childhood friends and proving to himself that he could overcome great obstacles. On senior night, Aiden started at first base. In his final at-bat of his last game, he stepped up once more and, on a 3-2 count, hit a single up in the middle, sparking an emotional celebration among teammates and spectators.
His mother expressed pride, noting that Aiden had shown how challenges can be conquered and how perseverance keeps you doing what you love to do.
She believes he isn’t finished fighting. Aiden hopes his story inspires others facing hardships. He encourages others not to let anyone define their limits but to set their own standards, showing that with determination, anything is possible.
Beyond baseball, Aiden has found another way to help. He recently founded Aiden’s Helping Hands, a foundation that has raised over $200,000 to assist families with medical bills and expenses, inspired by witnessing the struggles of other children during their own treatment. Those interested in supporting his mission can visit AidensHelpingHands.com.
Additionally, as of this writing, Aiden’s recent scans show he has been cancer-free for nine months, the longest stretch since his diagnosis three years ago.
The bottom line
When facing any challenge, it’s hard to hold on to hope. Aiden’s story is about more than sports or illness; it demonstrates that anything is possible with determination, resilience, a strong support system, and a passion for something you love, which gives you purpose and meaning in life.
Related reading:
51-Year-Old Plays Baseball Again After Limb Loss
New Film Chronicles Amputee’s Journey Through Surf and Snow
10-Year-Old Double Leg Amputee Proves Nothing Can Hold Him Back
