Classmates Celebrate 6-Year-Old Boy's Final Chemo Treatment

Six-year-old John Oliver Zippay, or J.O. for short, is a student at St. Helen Catholic School in Newbury, Ohio, just outside of Cleveland. Despite a tough few years, J.O. made his return to class earlier this week.

Just over three years ago, J.O. was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He was immediately placed in the hospital, then given chemotherapy in an effort to beat the leukemia.

J.O. faced the biggest battle of his life when he was diagnosed at the age of three. Now he's six, meaning he's spent about half of his life enduring the fight.

"He's doing great. He's feeling better. A lot of his side effects over the years involved his legs from the steroids, and now he's doing great," J.O.'s dad John told reporters.

Incredibly, J.O. was able to keep up in his studies despite his ongoing chemotherapy. "Him having to miss some of the time was tough, but the class was just so happy to see him come back," said school Principal Patrick Gannon.

J.O.'s classmates and teachers had been following his battle with leukemia. When they learned he was coming back, the school came together to give him a big welcome party.

J.O. and his family attended an assembly at the school to celebrate his triumphant return. But that was just the beginning of his special day.

It was a scene of hugs, high-fives and tears of happiness as J.O. once again walked the halls of St. Helen Catholic School.

One of the enduring images of J.O.'s big day is him proudly walking the hallway, flanked on both sides by cheering students and teachers. It was a truly touching scene.

At six, this kid has dealt with more than his fair share of adversity in his life — and he's done it all with a smile on his face. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

h/t: Fox 8 Cleveland, YouTube | CBS 17