A Hopkinsville native battling leukemia received a warm welcome home Wednesday afternoon after months of intensive treatment in Texas.
Chase Pemberton arrived at Hopkinsville-Christian County Airport just before 3 p.m., returning home after spending the past seven months at MD Anderson Cancer Center undergoing treatment for acute myeloid leukemia.
Pemberton, a Hopkinsville High School graduate and Western Kentucky University alum, recently underwent a stem cell transplant as part of his treatment. While now back home, he remains immunocompromised and will continue his recovery under careful medical guidance.
His return was made possible in part by local pilot Duncan Pfiefer, who flew to Houston to bring Pemberton and his family back to Hopkinsville.
A crowd of supporters gathered at the airport to welcome him home, including numerous staff members from Christian County Public Schools, where his mother is employed. Family, friends and community members who have followed his journey over the past year were on hand to show their support.
Following the arrival, the Christian County Sheriff’s Department provided a police escort for Pemberton and his family from the airport to their home.
Pemberton’s battle with leukemia has drawn significant community support since his diagnosis, including multiple blood drives and fundraisers held in his honor.
Wednesday’s homecoming continues his journey, as he transitions from hospital-based care to recovery at home surrounded by family and community.
