PITTSBURGH -- John Challis, the inspirational Beaver County teenager who spread a positive message in his final months with a terminal disease, died at home in his sleep Tuesday afternoon. He was 18. (Read Full Story)

PIRATES PRESIDENT FRANK COONELLY'S STATEMENT:

"The Pirates organization is deeply saddened by the passing of John Challis. John spent time with many members of the Pirates family, including John Russell, our players and several of those within our front office. He was -- and will continue to be -- an inspiration to each of us.

"John had every reason to complain about his situation, but he chose not to. What he did do was show unfathomable courage and great wisdom for someone so young. John's body could not win the battle with cancer, but John's tremendous spirit will live on amongst all those he and his story impacted across the country.

"On behalf of the entire Pirates' family, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to John's devoted parents, Scott and Gina, his sister Lexie, and all of his many friends that have helped to support John and his family. Our thoughts and prayers will be with them during this difficult time."

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PENGUINS STATEMENT:

"The Penguins organization would like to express our deepest sympathy to the family of John Challis on John's passing. John was an extraordinarily courageous young man who touched all of our lives with his strength, passion, dignity and caring for others. Because of his attitude and actions, especially in the last year of his life when he faced so much adversity, his memory will last forever."