Gary Keller’s courageous struggle with cancer ends

Montgomery County teen Gary Keller died Monday after a struggle with a very rare kind of cancer. When he was diagnosed in December 2008, his mom, Cindy, said she didn’t think he would live until Christmas.

WHYY profiled Keller’s battle against his illness—and time—to graduate from Upper Perkiomen High School in June.

He said he didn’t believe in complaining—or in giving up.

“It was not easy. My whole road to getting to graduation was not easy. You can do it. You just have to stay positive like I’ve been,” he said. “All my life, I’ve been positive and look how far it got me now.”

Keller lived longer than many people thought he would. He made it to graduation. He went to the prom too.

And, despite his failing health, Keller gained a reputation among his classmates and teachers as a kid who didn’t complain, but instead made them laugh. His determination and kindness were a lesson to all.

He will be buried at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Pennsburg.