As the 38th annual 'Blowout' at the Horseneck Holy Ghost grounds came to a close, local residents still swayed to the music and ate what was left of the food. However, there was one 9-year-old in particular who was beaming more than anyone in the crowd.

This year’s recipient of The Blowout’s annual giveaway was Braiden Norton, who was about 18-months-old when doctors discovered that he had a tumor, a noncancerous form of juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma, on his brainstem.

Even so, his family and friends remain optimistic.

“Braiden is doing very well,” said Phil Norton, Braiden’s father. “People say he looks fantastic. We are so thankful for the support.”

According to Janine Simmons, one of event's organizers who has been to every one since 1977, The Blowout is something that has really brought the community together.

“It’s really heartwarming,” said Simmons. “We get lots of fabulous donations. All of the seafood was donated, as well as the hats from Ahead (Headgear).”

Simmons said that it’s unfortunate that medical costs are so huge.

“Braiden is such an awesome little boy, and we knew that he was the perfect candidate,” said Simmons.

Norton mentioned that the treatment Braiden received for four years has been proven to work and is safe, effective and non-toxic. Unfortunately, the only place the treatment has become available is in Texas.

“Unfortunately, it’s extremely expensive and this time, it doesn't look like insurance will help out,” said Norton. “It’s nice to have these fundraisers. It opens more doors to options.”

Phil said the Norton family will receive the check from The Blowout in approximately a month.

According to Laura Broekel, a family friend, the treatment will cost approximately $17,000 a month.

“I met Braiden when he was two and we did a fundraiser for him at the United Fishermen’s Club,” said Broekel. “Phil is a single parent and doesn't have any help. I immediately fell in love with Braiden, and I consider him a grandchild.”

Broekel’s sister, Catherine O’Berry, assisted her in forming “Team Braiden.”

The sisters own Down to Earth Natural Foods in New Bedford and met Braiden when he and his father would visit the store.

“We’ve been a big team since he [Braiden] got sick nine years ago,” said O’Berry.

Elin Bodin, a photographer, said she has known Braiden since he was three and she has watched him grow up ever since.

“I would go to the ends of the world for him,” said Broekel.

Simmons discussed The Blowout as having a bit of a reputation.

“I relied heavily on (local musician) Butch McCarthy to line up all of the [bands] for me,” said Simmons.

Ian Motha, lead singer of the band "Apples," said the band has never played at The Blowout before.

“We [the band] think it’s a really great cause and we’re lucky to be a part of it,” said Motha.

Dartmouth resident Dori Rubbicco agreed with Motha.

“I was here last year for my niece,” said Rubbicco. “Today is special because I’m playing [in a band] with both my kids [Ian and Jenna].”

Also present at the event were family members of last year’s recipient, Terri DaSilva, in her fight against breast cancer.

“They did such a great job for my niece,” said Laurie O’Neil of Dartmouth. “They support people who really need the help. It’s such a great cause.”

“The more I’ve learned about The Blowout, the more grateful I’ve become,” said Norton.

“When you love someone, you stick by them no matter what,” said Broekel.