The shine of chrome and the rumble of engines filled Adams Township Community Park this weekend, but the true highlight wasn’t the cars. It was the community — neighbors, classmates, and friends — rallying together to support six-year-old Emily Moore, a Mars Area Primary Center first grader who is bravely facing treatment for a brain tumor alongside her parents Michael and April, and her nine-year-old brother, Evan.
A Father’s Story of Courage
Emily’s father, Michael Moore, recalled how their world changed earlier this year. In April, a routine optometry appointment revealed pressure behind Emily’s eyes. Within days, doctors at Children’s Hospital had discovered the tumor and performed back-to-back surgeries — first to relieve the pressure, then to remove as much of the tumor as possible.
“She spent three weeks in the ICU and then another month in rehab learning how to stand, walk, talk, and swallow again,” Michael said. “Immediately after coming home, she began chemotherapy, which she’s still undergoing today. Everything the doctors have done so far has been working.”
Despite the challenges, Michael said his daughter continues to approach each day with remarkable joy. Whether it’s playing cards during her treatments, listening to music, or turning simple moments into games, Emily has a way of making even the hardest days brighter.
A Classroom Filled With Love
At school, Emily is surrounded by classmates and a teacher who see her as more than a patient. Madison Davis, her first grade teacher, described Emily as “a mini-celebrity” in the classroom.
“When she walks in, the kids are the first to stand up and want to hug her,” Davis said. “They might not comprehend everything she’s going through, but they know to give her love, support, and friendship. She’s the brightest part of my day every single day. She makes me want to be better.”
Care and Compassion at School
Behind the scenes, the staff at Mars Area Primary Center work diligently to make sure Emily is safe and supported. Amy Rogers, the school nurse, explained that Emily’s care is carefully planned.
“We create healthcare plans to manage her needs and keep her healthy,” Rogers said. Nurse Amy Rogers. “Her family has been wonderful in guiding us, and the school community has rallied around her.”
Rogers, who brought her own Challenger to the car show, said the event was especially meaningful. “We love car shows as a family, and to do this for Emily made it even more rewarding. We’re spending time together, bringing people together, and benefiting a family who could really use the help.”
A Community That Shows Up
The fundraiser was organized by Adams Township Parks and Recreation Department. Families, students, and car enthusiasts filled the park, walking the rows of vehicles and stopping to talk with the Moore family.
For Michael, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming. “Everybody’s been awesome,” he said. “The teachers, the nurses, the community — they’ve all been phenomenal.”
As the sun glinted off chrome fenders and the smell of grilled food hung in the air, one thing was clear: this was more than a car show. It was a community rallying around a little girl with a big fight ahead — and a spirit that continues to inspire everyone around her.
“She just makes everything she does fun,” Michael said. “Her spirits have been phenomenal.”