DALTON — On Sunday morning, 13-year-old Nate Sykes greeted customers at Shire Donuts with a warm smile as they arrived to pick up their orders. For many, it wasn’t the first time they had seen Nate behind the counter — this year’s “Donuts with Santa” event was organized in his name.
The fundraiser, which has been held annually for a decade, raises money for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. The organization supports families affected by pediatric brain tumors, funds research, and advocates for policies to combat childhood cancer. Since the event’s inception, Nate and his family have raised nearly $178,000 for the cause, according to his mother, Amy Sykes.
The event, which ran from 8 a.m. to noon, attracted large crowds. For just $5, attendees received a doughnut, a cup of hot cocoa, and a photo with Santa. The funds raised will go directly to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, providing a significant boost to the cause, said Amy Sykes.
Nate was diagnosed with a pediatric brain tumor in 2013. While the tumor is benign, it has caused him ongoing health challenges. He has undergone several surgeries, including a 12-hour brain surgery in 2022, followed by additional procedures to address nerve damage. On a daily basis, Nate faces headaches, nausea, and double vision, but you’d never know it from his upbeat attitude.
At the doughnut shop, Nate was affectionately referred to as “the mayor” by staff and event organizers, a nod to his friendly nature and willingness to help. Christen Simmons-Smith of Two Moms for a Cure, the group behind the event, praised Nate for assisting with everything from making doughnuts to greeting guests and singing.
“He lights up every room he walks into,” Amy Sykes said, noting that Nate’s positive attitude inspires everyone around him.
Nate’s interests extend beyond fundraising. He is particularly passionate about politics and government, with a keen interest in history. When he’s not studying, he enjoys playing video games, with “Fortnite” and “Madden” among his current favorites.
The turnout for the event exceeded Nate’s expectations. “I didn’t know so many people supported this cause,” he said. He also offered encouraging words to others facing a pediatric brain tumor, urging them to “keep fighting” and to “make the most of what you’re going through.”
The “Donuts with Santa” fundraiser has become a community tradition since its start in 2022. Heather King, owner of Shire Donuts, called it the “favorite day of the year” for the staff. Stephanie Maschino, an organizer for Two Moms for A Cure, said that while the final attendance numbers hadn’t been tallied yet, the goal was simply to see the event grow each year.
In addition to photos with Santa and doughnuts, attendees could purchase merchandise and enter raffles, many of which were donated by local businesses and community members. One of the raffle prizes was donated by the family of Carter LaCasse, a Pittsfield boy with leukemia, for whom the fundraiser was held last year. Similarly, the family of Sawyer Dunham, a beneficiary of the 2023 fundraiser, joined the event this year.
Maschino noted that the event reflects a strong sense of community among families affected by childhood cancer. “We all know what it’s like,” she said, referencing the long drives for appointments, the anxiety over test results, and the difficult anniversaries that come around each year. “And everybody’s willing to help each other.”
The event not only provided financial support for the foundation but also strengthened the bonds between families and the local community.
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