Connor Heffler, Natick Boy With Spinal Cancer, Dies at Age 11

NATICK, MA — Connor Heffler, 11, has lost his battle with cancer, dying from complications of a spinal tumor he was diagnosed with last year, reports the MetroWest Daily News. Blue and orange ribbons that were posted around town honored the young boy, whose parents are Natick Police Officer Elizabeth Heffler and his dad Steve is an electrician with the Department of Public Works.

A hockey lover, everyone knew Connor "as an energetic and hard working kid with a positive attitude," reads a GoFundMe page that brought in nearly $35,000 to support Connor and his family. Connor woke up one morning for school and had no use or feeling in his legs, and when his parents rushed him to Mass. General Hospital, a tumor was discovered on his spine. With a diagnosis of cancer, doctors were unable to remove the entire tumor because of where it was located.

Connor, and the family, are very well known around town and several fundraisers were held, including several by the Natick Police Department.

Condolences continue to pour into social media.