Hundreds turn out to celebrate early graduation of cancer patient

VALPARAISO | Bret Laczynski received a standing ovation from more than 400 people Friday as he was wheeled into the gym at SELF school while "Pomp and Circumstance" played in the background.

Nineteen-year-old Bret has battled brain cancer since age 10. He was scheduled to graduate in the spring, but his deteriorating condition led Special Education Learning Facility to move up his graduation.

"We never thought Bret would experience graduating from high school," said Bret's father, Todd Laczynski, of Valparaiso.

"He has missed so much since he's been sick, like dating, prom, driving, so I am still in shock that he was able to experience this," said Lisa Hood, Bret's mother.

Bret is under hospice care after he was diagnosed last month with a second form of cancer doctors said is inoperable.

"We weren't sure if he was even going to make it to the graduation," Hood said. "But he got up this morning and was in a good mood and was moving to the music in the car on the way here."

The staff members at SELF said Bret has had a tremendous effect on their lives.

"The impact of Bret is far-reaching," paraprofessional Kris Vowels said. "Bret notices everything, and he brings a smile to everyone he meets, and gives them his trademark thumbs up."

Paraprofessional Sue O'Reilly agreed.

"His hugs are priceless, and he is a ray of sunshine," O'Reilly said.

Jill Hunt, Bret's teacher, said Bret and his parents are an important part of the school's bond.

"We are one, big family in a little school with a big heart," Hunt said. "Todd and Lisa's determination with Bret has caused a ripple effect in the school and in the community."

After Chesterton High School Principal James Goetz presented Bret his diploma, Bret got help moving his tassel from his 7-year-old brother, Cody. His brother Bailey, 16, helped him toss his cap into the crowd.

After the graduation, the crowd celebrated with Bret.

"This is bittersweet," said Jo Laczynski , Bret's grandmother. "God has given him to us for his love, and God has blessed us with Bret."

Todd Laczynski thanked the crowd, especially the SELF school staff.

"You are all very special people here, and the outpouring of love has made us all feel special," he said.

Robin Guajardo was a secretary at SELF school years ago and came back for Bret's graduation.

"I remember his gentle spirit," she said. "No one was a stranger to Bret. He loves everybody. He's an angel here on earth."

After the graduation, Hood remained positive.

"You can't look at the crowd and see all the banners and people and do anything but smile," Hood said. "There were people from out of town who came to see Bret graduate. He did it."