Alabama Teen Will Roberts Dies After 18-Month Cancer Battle

Will Roberts, a 15‑year‑old from Ralph, Alabama, died early Thursday at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego after an 18‑month fight with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. His mother, Brittney Roberts, posted on Facebook: "At 12:45 a.m. today, on my birthday, our precious Will took his final breath on this earth and entered the presence of Jesus." The family had traveled to California for experimental therapy (DeltaRex‑G) after a nationwide appeal that raised more than $588,000 via GoFundMe and attracted support from Dr. Mehmet Oz and many donors. When the disease spread to his brain, his parents chose to discontinue treatment, and Will passed surrounded by his parents and brother.

Will’s story unified thousands of strangers in prayer and generosity across Alabama and beyond, highlighting the emotional impact of a young patient’s battle with a lethal disease.