Sports have long been a main focus in Camden Thepsimuong’s life. He has excelled as a football
and tennis player at William Byrd High School, but baseball wasn’t one of his interests.
However, this spring he has been seen on local ballfields – throwing out the first pitch in both
softball and baseball games in support of Cam’s Purpose, an organization formed to help the
Thepsimuong family with expenses in his fight against bone cancer.
He threw out the first pitch at the Salem Red Sox game on April 19, and this past week at the
WBHS girls softball JV/varsity doubleheader at Byrd against Franklin County. The team was
playing for a bigger purpose than winning that evening – they were there supporting Cam.
on May 9. (photos by Suzanne Witcher)
Cam was diagnosed almost a year ago with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. He has
undergone many rounds of treatments since then, locally and in North Carolina, all with faith,
grace, good humor, and a positive attitude which have inspired his family, friends, school, and
the entire community.
His mother, Charlene, says “Cam is always on. His energy is infectious. There is never a dull
moment with him, and he enjoys being himself around others. The events have been so
wonderful to be a part of and it has made my heart smile at the support and love shown to Cam.”
Many community partners have joined Cam’s fight, including Mainstream Mental Health
Services, William Byrd High School and its teams and organizations, the Vinton Breakfast Lions
Club, the Salem Red Sox, and many more.
Cam said his goal with his pitches this spring has been not throwing a strike, but just throwing on
target and he has done well.
Those attending the Byrd games and other events were asked to wear yellow in support of Cam.
Yellow is the ribbon color that represents osteosarcoma.
The Thepsimuong family has a GoFundMe set up where all proceeds go toward his treatments;
anyone who wishes to donate can contribute at https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-camdens-
fight-for-recovery-and-hope.
