In the hallways of Harrisburg Middle School, eighth-grader Mason Larsen is known for his love of math, percussion skills in the marching band, and his subtle but unmistakable sense of humor. Today, however, he's becoming known for something even more remarkable—his extraordinary courage in the face of a life-altering diagnosis.

"It's kind of hardish being in eighth grade," Mason says with characteristic understatement, "but it's fun and it's good."

What began as unusual fatigue and drowsiness in October quickly escalated when Mason experienced a severe migraine while walking his younger brother home from the bus stop. A trip to the local emergency room revealed something unexpected in his brain, leading to a diagnosis that would change everything—Medulloblastoma Class 4, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

What doctors initially thought was a single tumor turned out to be six—three in his brain and three more throughout his spinal cord. The discovery required immediate action, and Mason's education was put on hold as he began his medical journey.

"When all this started, they said to us, 'You're already done with the school year. You can come back if you want to, and we'll put you through it, but to us, you've graduated,'" Mason recalls of his school's response. This removed any academic pressure, allowing him to focus entirely on his health.

Mason has since undergone three brain surgeries, including an emergency procedure that required him to be life-flighted to St. Louis Children's Hospital. Between surgeries, radiation treatments, and ongoing chemotherapy, he now navigates school life with the assistance of a walker and wheelchair when needed.

Throughout this ordeal, the Harrisburg community has rallied around Mason. The school organized fundraisers and facilitated a shower installation at his home. Students and staff wore green shirts—one of Mason's favorite colors—in solidarity, and his room at home is filled with so many get-well cards from fellow students that they no longer fit on his walls.

"The school has been extremely supportive, and so has the community," his mother notes.

Despite the physical challenges and setbacks from multiple surgeries, Mason maintains his determination. He continues with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy as he works to regain his strength and motor skills affected by the tumors.

Recent scans following radiation treatment show promising results—two of the spinal tumors are no longer visible, and the others show signs of deterioration. Mason is now undergoing chemotherapy, which is expected to continue until August.

When asked about his goals, Mason doesn't hesitate: "At the end of school, I'd like to be able to walk across that stage by myself and get that diploma." It's a powerful ambition for someone currently relying on mobility aids.

For now, Mason takes each day as it comes. Some days are better than others. "There are some days where I just don't want to do it, but I know I have to," he says with remarkable maturity.

In a year when he should be enjoying the perks of being an eighth-grader—the "old dude" as he puts it—and looking forward to high school, Mason is instead fighting a different battle. But with the support of his family, his school, and the entire Harrisburg community, he's going far beyond the extra mile.

As Mason focuses on recovery, his quiet determination speaks volumes. Whether it's mastering math problems or overcoming medical challenges, Mason Larsen is proving himself to be the ultimate fighter—a true Harrisburg Bulldog in every sense of the word.