MENTOR, Ohio — The Mentor community is mourning the loss of a fighter, Jack Sawyer.
The 17-year-old Mentor High School student passed away on Sunday following a long battle with Ewing sarcoma, an aggressive and rare form of bone cancer.
Early Sunday morning, Jack's family announced his passing in a Facebook post.
"The time to pray for a miracle has ended. Jack has taken his last breath on this earth, and there is no more pain. The time to celebrate the miracle named Jack Bennett Sawyer is now upon us," said his father Matt Sawyer.
Mentor Public Schools Superintendent Craig Heath and Mentor High School Principal Jason Crowe released the following statement to students and parents following Jack's passing:
"It is with great sadness we write you this letter. We learned this morning our student Jack Sawyer passed away overnight at home following his extremely courageous battle with cancer. Jack was 17 years old.
"Jack’s positive attitude, warm smile and kind, compassionate spirit touched the lives of many. Throughout his 18-month battle with cancer, Jack has been an absolute inspiration for us all. He handled all of the ups and downs of his journey with incredible strength and grace, and the way he brought the community together was like nothing we’ve ever seen."
In October, Mentor High School's Football team honored Jack ahead of their game making him an honorary team captain for the evening.
Mentor school officials noted that at a recent football game, Jack shared a quote for the announcer to read over the PA. The school shared the quote with students and parents on Sunday morning.
"To my classmates, teachers, staff and the entire Mentor community - I thank you for all the love and support. It was a privilege to be a part of this community. I’ll always be a Card! Remember my motto PACE- Positive Attitude Changes Everything. You will forever be in my heart. I love you all," said Jack.
Recently in October, 3News' Laura Caso surprised Jack with videos and well wishes from his friends and classmates during Front Row.
Mentor High School officials say that school guidance counselors and school psychologists will be available to meet with students. Additionally, mental health professionals from the Lake County Trauma Response Team will be at the school to ensure grieving students receive proper attention.
Want to be among the first to know the most important local and national news? You can download the free WKYC app and get the latest updates right on your phone: Android, Apple.