Parade held for 6-year-old battling brain cancer

The community turned out in a big way for a local six-year-old boy who has been battling brain cancer for several years.

Valentin Garcia was surprised outside his home in Thermal the morning of July 21.

Valentin's father, Jose, contacted Western Exterminator saying Garcia had seen their mascot "Little Man" on the way to one of his treatments. Jose wanted to know where he could buy a doll.

"To us, it's not just a logo. It's a lifesaver," said Jose. "When I'm weak and when I feel broken, he's the one that picks up after me and does the swing shift."

After hearing the story, the company decided to offer more than a toy. They wanted to host a parade.

"We got with the community- the fire the sheriff's department, and some of our colleagues and organize this parade for Valentin," said vice president of Western Exterminator Fred Ashford. "This is really the most amazing thing I've ever been a part of."

Other businesses were invited to participate in the parade or give donations. Participants included Hello Fresh, Tiffany's Sweet Spot, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Academy Sports, Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Beddy's, Decorate My Yard, and Salton City Fire Station.

"There's still a lot of good people out there in the world with everything all the chaos going around. Yeah, I'm overjoyed," said Jose.