South Jersey community steps up to help teen defying the odds

AUDUBON, N.J. (FOX 29) - A South Jersey community is coming together in a big way to help a boy diagnosed with a brain tumor 16 years ago. He has defied the odds. The teen wasn't supposed to live more than a couple of years, but now he's 17 years old.

"We were told that there was no chance of survival and it would probably be two months to two years," his mom, Laura DeFilippo, told FOX 29. "For me, that's a blessing and I still take everything a day at a time."

Miracle baby Luke DeFilippo is defying the odds. He just celebrated his 17th birthday.

At 18 months old, Luke was diagnosed with a brain tumor among other health issues. He's nonverbal and stopped growing at roughly 5 years old. He big in spirit, boisterous, adventurous and curious.

Luke requires a constant watch. His mom says the family of six has outgrown its 900-square-foot home in Audubon, New Jersey.

"We need space where we can have a common area where he can be free to move about," Laura said.

Renovations to truly accommodating Luke will cost about $150,000. On a single salary income--the 'Room for Luke' is only possible with very generous friends and neighbors like Peggy Slack.

"It would just be really nice to help a neighbor who needs some more accommodations in their home," volunteer Peggy Slack said.

Slack and others formed the fundraising group called 'Room for Luke'. They host events like Tuesday's dine and donate at Amato Bros in Oaklyn

So far, the group raised about $25,000, but they need $150,000 to cover renovation costs A GoFundMe page has been set-up to help. If you wish to donate, please click here.