My heart is heavy today, for an old friend lost his little boy to cancer last night.

Mason’s story is a heartbreaking one. It’s also a story of immense courage, compassion, love, family, community, soccer and more.

Thanks to the generosity, eloquence and untiring bravery of Mason’s parents, we can all share in this boy’s life and his family’s struggle. There’s a lot to learn and feel.

It’s clear that Mason touched the lives of those around him and made them better. I regret that I never had the good fortune to meet him.

[UPDATE] At the suggestion of Mason’s parents, I’m helping Mason do something special for the pediatric oncology floor at Children’s Hospital by donating to: Mason Leach’s Super Star Fund, c/o Children’s National Medical Center, attn: Volunteer and Consumer Support Services, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010.