The Force is Strong with Easton
When Easton was just two years old, he fell in love with Darth Vader during a family movie-thon. He’d ask for “bum bum” on the TV, leaving everyone confused—until one day, Darth Vader appeared on screen and Easton lit up. “BUM BUM!” he yelled with delight.
From that moment on, Darth Vader was his character. He even got to duel with him at Disneyland, smiling the whole time.
Fast forward a few years and Easton—now 11—faces a very real battle: Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. His family began calling his tumor the “Death Star,” a way for him to make sense of the reality he was facing and turn something scary into a narrative he already loved and connected with.
Treatments have been typical for fighting cancer; hospital stays, chemo, and more. Radiation became more tolerable when Easton received and wore a pediatric Star Wars-themed Starlight Hospital Gown featuring Darth Vader.
“It made him feel like he belonged,” said his mom, a pediatric nurse. “I think we forget how important that is when a child is sick.”
Easton is now preparing for his final day in the hospital—fittingly, May the 4th. His family is planning a full Star Wars celebration: blow-up lightsabers for the staff, catered lunch, music – a celebration of the ultimate final battle— Easton defeating the Death Star.
“I think it’s funny that Darth Vader saved the fun for radiation,” his mom joked. “But now we’re ready to dance our way out of treatment.”
Easton’s story is just one of 3 million made possible by Starlight each year. It’s a powerful reminder of how healing often starts with happiness.
Easton’s Star Wars-themed Darth Vader gown was generously donated by Disney as part of their ongoing collaboration with Starlight. And thanks to supporters like you, Starlight can continue providing even more child-friendly and character-themed hospital gowns for kids that bring comfort, happiness, and a sense of belonging to kids across the country.
Want to help more kids suit up for their brave battles? Be Their Hero today.
