A young boy who passed away after a three-year battle with cancer this week was remembered by his family and friends at a vigil Wednesday.
Gavin Rupp, 13, helped throw out the first pitch earlier this month, followed by an hour conversation with left fielder Bryce Harper, his favorite National.
Rupp, of Ashland, Va., was battling Glioblastoma Brain Cancer. An inoperable tumor had returned to his brain in June.
"When we left the ballpark that night, it was magical," Gavin's father, Chris Rupp told News4. "I think that Bryce did that for me. It brought back the Gavin that I lost for a couple days."
He hopes the attention his son's passing is gaining helps raise research dollars for pediatric cancers.
"I love it that Gavin is viewed as a warrior, but he's only one of the thousands of kids fighting cancer," Chris Rupp said.
During a vigil Wednesday at Gavin's school, hundreds gathered with Gavin's family, paying tribute to their young hero.
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The day prior, as news spread of Gavin's death, Harper shared his condolences via Twitter.
Deeply saddened by the news I received shortly after the game! Gavin Rupp is a hero not only to me, but to many around! My condolences go — Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) July 31, 2013
out to his family and he will forever be in my heart and my mind! Much love buddy and I will be playing for you! #CANCERSUCKS — Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) July 31, 2013
I will be playing for this young man! Gavin is my hero and he was such a warrior! #CANCERSUCKS pic.twitter.com/xaV5XSkDyH — Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) July 31, 2013