FREEDOM, Pa. -- John Challis is dying. Doctors only give the Beaver County native months to live.

Two years ago, Challis was diagnosed with liver cancer, which has since spread to his lungs.

But instead of focusing on the inevitable, the 18-year-old is building a legacy to leave behind.

Like many other western Pennsylvania children, he grew up enjoying hunting, fishing and cheering for the Steelers -- and hoping to play sports.

Despite his illness, Challis has been determined to make his athletic dreams come true.

Last fall, he spent a few plays with the Freedom High School football team. This spring, when his body allows, he participates with the school's varsity baseball team.

Above everything, he has kept a positive attitude and outlook, despite knowing that his days on the playing field are numbered.

"It makes you realize that seeing things in a positive manner affects more that just you," Challis said.

And in fact, Challis' story has affected his entire community. Baseball teammates organized a "Walk for a Champion" to raise money for him to take a cruise -- one last vacation with his family.

Challis insisted the leftover money that was raised should be given to another family in need.

"If you look around, there's all these people that support me, and I just want to say thank you for that, and that's what keeps me going every day," Challis said.

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