13-year-old joins Northeastern University soccer team after undergoing chemo

BOSTON -- A Norwood teen bravely battling cancer became the newest and youngest member of the Northeastern University women’s soccer team Thursday night.

Caeleigh Brown, 13, was diagnosed with leukemia nearly one year ago and had to undergo daily chemotherapy treatments while enduring a long stint in the hospital.

But Thursday night was a night to celebrate for the huge soccer fan and top recruit. Head coach Ashley Phillips congratulated Caeleigh as she signed her letter of intent with her parents and three little sisters proudly watching.

“It’s great. I’m super excited to be on the team. They’re so nice,” Caeleigh said. “They treat each other as if they’re sisters to each other, and I’m so excited to become part of that, because it’s like having more sisters, even though I already have three.”

The experience was made possible by Team Impact, a non-profit that has connected more than 1,400 kids facing serious illnesses with 500 college teams in 47 states.

“Every (event) I go to is emotional,” said Seth Rosenzweig, executive director of the program. “It’s a great way to see these kids just be kids again and be part of something, when they battle so ferociously the challenges they’ve had.”

But Caeleigh has more to celebrate than joining her new team. The seventh-grader finished her last chemo treatment on Sept. 29.

“We found out in the middle of October that she’s in complete remission, and we’re so grateful,” said Caeleigh’s mother, Tracey Brown. “She is the strongest kid I know, by far.

At Thursday’s event, Caeleigh played a game with her new team, laughing and getting to know her teammates. As a member, she will attend practices and games, as well as team dinners and events.

Over the past few months, she has already spent time with the other girls, hanging out at home and practicing on the field, sporting the Huskies gear.

Phillips insisted Caeleigh’s teammates may benefit from the experience even more than Caeleigh does.

“She’s so positive and happy, and you would have no idea that she went through such a difficult time,” Phillips said. “I think its unique. You don’t see people every day that have that, especially after such a difficult situation.”

Caeleigh has set an example not only for her new teammates but for her own family.

“She’s been amazing for all of us,” Tracey said. “Stronger than we could ever be, I think.”

Cox Media Group