Hundreds of Effingham County citizens made their way to the Effingham County Fair Grounds in Springfield Saturday to celebrate the life of one of Effingham County’s strongest and bravest members, Zack Norton.

Norton, 15, has been diagnosed with a rare type of cancer called Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma – he has undergone months of chemotherapy but the cancer has continued to spread.

Saturday’s Celebration of Life was done to not only honor Zack, but raise money in the process to help with the upcoming expenses that his family will face. The event was also done to ensure that the Norton’s are able to spend as much time together as possible.

While it was one of the hotter days of the year, Saturday’s weather could not have been much better. Attendees of the Celebration of Life were able to enjoy a warm day of fun and fellowship that included a number of vendors and activities for all to enjoy.

With over 30 different vendors, attendeeshad their fair share of opportunities to purchase hand-made items, delicious treats and other trinkets.

There was also a lot for kids to enjoy as well. Two bounce houses, a dunking booth, various games, a pony ride, water slide and snow cones were all the rage for children.

Towards the back of the fair grounds, classic cars, motorcycles and souped-up trucks were on display as part of the Car and Bike Show.

There was an auction at noon to raise additional funds for the Norton’s and over $15,000 in raffles and auctions altogether.

The Effingham County Fire Department had one of their trucks on site as well as live music from KIX96 out of Savannah.

While Zack may not have much time left, the turnout Saturday should show he and his family just how much the citizens of Effingham County are thinking of them during this time.

*On Wednesday, Zack Norton passed away at the age of 15 following his hard-fought fight with cancer.