Jun 10
24
Ambassador Profile: Peter Gatti
Peter Gatti: Toronto, Ontario
Peter is a very active 14 year old boy. He lives with his Mom, David and brother David, 10.
Peter was diagnosed with Leukemia (ALL) in April of 2006 one week after his 12th birthday after what seemed to be an uneventful bout of stomach flu. The doctor had decided to do some precautionary blood work which eventually led to the discovery of the leukemia at Sick’s Kids Hospital. He was immediately admitted and within a week of undergoing intensive chemotherapy, he was in remission. At the end of this first week, Peter could barely walk and required a wheelchair for the first day out and about. Peter continues with his protocol (a three and a half year program) which includes multiple visits to Sick Kids Hospital for various treatments including lumbar punctures (injections of chemotherapy in the spinal cord).
As a result of the side-effects of the chemotherapy Peter had to sacrifice much especially in the first year: a large amount of school, a summer of soccer, activities with his friends, limited hockey and, most important to him, playing with his younger brother David.
Now approaching his second anniversary of diagnosis, one would be hard-pressed to identify Peter as having to deal with this disease. Though Peter doesn’t miss nearly as much school as he did before, he continues to miss up to a week of school per month due to the treatment and side effects. Despite all this he remains an honours student while also taking part in a gifted program. He is looking forward to this spring’s upcoming graduation and moving on to high school. Peter enjoys countless extra-curricular activities including soccer, hockey, chess and volleyball. This summer, he will have his first real ‘paying’ job as a referee for soccer games. He enjoys playing guitar and is always learning a new tune. Best of all: he’s back to playing full-tilt with David.
Peter also plays an active role in his community: he is an alter server at his church every week and is also an active Scout member. Like his father, he’s developed a love for cycling. Last year he managed to take part in some of the Tour for Kids. This year, he plans on doing the 2 day Ontario Tour for Kids, where he will raise his own funds to assist with Ontario cancer camps. He is already incredibly excited about it.
Peter has a tremendous attitude and always manages to see humour in things. Like the Latin translation of his name, he remains a ‘rock’ in the face of adversity. He has had, and continues to have, terrific support through family, friends and community, which he really appreciates in every way.
