After a cancer diagnosis, treating and fighting the disease can consume a person’s life.

Reuther Haden has had to spend more days in the hospital than playing with his dinosaurs than most 3-year-olds since he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

To bring some fun into his life, community members, local organizations and businesses are banding together send him to Walt Disney World by hosting “Aces for Reuther,” a tennis tournament on April 24.

“There’s not a whole lot of fun in what he has to go through,” said Tom Anderson III, who is heading up the event. “What he’s going through is something no 3-year-old should have to endure.”

The tournament will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cedar Point Golf and Country Club in a world team tennis format with teams of four men and four women. While there is no fee to play, the goal for each team is to raise $1,000 to participate.

There will also be a bake sale for observers or passers-by who would like to help Reuther.

Reuther was diagnosed with cancer in September 2009, and he has since undergone chemotherapy treatments and is now in the extended maintenance phase of his chemotherapy.

“The whole process has been a crazy journey from his diagnosis in September until now,” said Brent Haden, Reuther’s father. “We’re still going through everything and will be for several more years.”

The idea for the tournament came from Anderson and his wife after they heard about Reuther’s diagnosis.

“The thought about if it were one of my children hit me hard,” Anderson said. “What I would do is spend as much time as possible creating a memorable experience.”

Anderson said that while it Reuther’s cancer is potentially life threatening, his parents hope he can be cured, but it will take several years of treatment.

“After his chemotherapy, he should be able to travel,” Anderson said. “It’s our goal to send the family on a much deserved vacation.”

There are still spots for four men and six women. Any players level 3.5 or higher interested in playing, or any who wish to make a monetary donation, should contact Tom Anderson at 573-4210 or at t.andersoniii@ubs.com.

All additional proceeds from the tournament will be donated to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.