Van Wyck Elementary School Celebrates Santiago Buther’s 14th Birthday with Heartfelt Remembrance and Community Support

Van Wyck Elementary School Honors Santiago Buther on His Birthday

Lancaster County, S.C. – A wave of red clothing swept through the hallways of Van Wyck Elementary School this week, celebrating the life of former student Santiago Buther, who passed away after a battle with a rare form of brain cancer known as DIPG. This year marks five years since his diagnosis, and the school community, alongside his family, continues to stand united under the banner of “Santiago Strong.”

A Day of Remembrance and Celebration

The event coincided with what would have been Santiago’s 14th birthday. Hundreds of students donned red apparel—Santiago’s favorite color—as they filled the hallways of the school. “To know that we can still walk these halls here, see his name and see his face and see all the red, it’s overwhelming,” expressed his parents, Cynthia and Eric Buther.

During this special day, Dr. Jason Ramey, the school principal, addressed the assembly: “I know this is a hard day. It’s an emotional day, but to be able to celebrate him and his legacy…it’s just a wonderful thing for us.” The atmosphere was filled with heartfelt emotions as students and staff remembered a young boy whose spirit and strength left a lasting mark on their lives.

Santiago’s Inspiring Journey

Santiago was diagnosed with DIPG in late 2018, at just seven years old. This type of brain tumor is known for being inoperable. “It’s kind of like an octopus that surrounds the brain,” his parents explained, detailing how the illness progressively took away physical capabilities from their son.

Yet, despite these hardships, Santiago showed incredible resilience. In September 2019, a video showcasing him leading the first lap at the school’s “Fun Run” went viral. That day, he left his wheelchair behind and proudly ran alongside his family. Tragically, he passed away just four months later, but his spirit lives on through the work and initiatives of his family.

The SantiagoStrong Foundation

In memory of their son, the Buther family established the SantiagoStrong Foundation to assist other families facing similar diagnoses. “It’s a promise I made Santiago before he passed: that I’m not gonna stop fighting,” Eric said. The foundation aims to alleviate some of the burdens these families face, providing assistance with bills, transportation, and lodging.

Cynthia emphasized the importance of community support during difficult times, stating, “Be there for people who are going through their lowest and most tragic things in their life. Because at the end of the day, all we have is each other.” This ethos of connection has spread throughout the school and beyond, reminding many of the value of compassion.

Community Involvement

The legacy of Santiago continues to inspire those around him. Teacher Danielle Chubb reflected on the profound impact he had on her life, stating, “He taught me more than I taught him…to always live every day like it was the last.”

To further honor Santiago’s memory, the community is invited to participate in the 3rd annual SantiagoStrong Foundation Mac & Cheese Contest, scheduled for Sunday, November 10, at the Print Shop in Fort Mill. This event not only serves as a fun gathering but also raises awareness and funds for the foundation.

As the community continues to rally around the Buther family and embrace the spirit of “Santiago Strong,” the impact of a young boy’s fight against cancer resonates far beyond the walls of Van Wyck Elementary School.