Caleb’s courage: Superheroes unite in memory of young Cape Breton boy

Caleb’s Courage Superheroes of all shapes and sizes came-out in costume today in memory of a courageous little boy. CTV’s Ryan MacDonald has the story.

Superheroes of all shapes and sizes came out in costume on Sunday in memory of a courageous little boy.

Three-year-old Caleb MacArthur passed away last year after battling a rare form of childhood cancer.

On Sunday, the second-annual Caleb's Courage event, hosted by his family, raised money and awareness for others facing a similar fight.

“We're all celebrating the courage of Caleb today, as well as all the other brave little superheroes who have battled and are still battling," said Nicole Forgeron-MacArthur, Caleb’s mother.

Caleb was diagnosed with neuroblastoma on his third birthday. Through his fight, he often dressed as his favourite superhero.

After battling the cancer for nearly a year, Caleb passed away in March 2015.

"We basically took our strength from watching Caleb,” said Mike MacArthur, Caleb’s father. “For the year that he battled this disease, he was able to get up every day, no matter how sick he was."

Sunday’s walk was lined with the stories of other children who have battled, or are battling, life-threatening illness.

It’s inspiring even grown adults to don their best superhero costume.

"I'm good friends with Mike and Nicole, I want to help support Caleb's courage. I also work at the hospital, so all the funds will be able to help out other kids in Cape Breton. It's definitely worthwhile,” said supporter Mickey Daye.

Caleb's parents created this event last year just months after their son passed away. Its impact on the community is already remarkable.

"The family has raised more than $100,000, which is unbelievable," said Brad Jacobs, CEO of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation.

All of the proceeds will help families get care close to home.

"This family has taken Caleb's memory and created a legacy that's going to help families for generations to come," said Jacobs.

"We needed to give back,” said Mike MacArthur, “and that's what we've done to create Caleb's Courage."

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Ryan MacDonald.