The A45K will honor the life and legacy of Aaron Wilson, a beloved young football player who courageously battled cancer before passing away at the age of 16. This special event will raise funds for the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO), a leading organization dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families, advancing research, and raising awareness about childhood cancer.
About Aaron:
Aaron Dennis Wilson was born on November 23, 2003, in Greensboro, NC, to Arthur Wilson III and Rasheda Mayse. From an early age, Aaron exhibited intelligence, a sharp sense of humor, and a love for his nana’s oatmeal—refusing to eat anyone else's until he could make it himself.
Growing up in Charlotte, NC, Aaron was an active and determined child, participating in karate, football, basketball, and Boy Scout Troop #7. His journey later took him to Florida, where he excelled academically, earning placement in Honors classes. His passion for football flourished under his father’s coaching with the West Orange Jr. Warriors of Winter Garden. His natural talent led his team to multiple playoff appearances, and in 2016, he became the first defensive player ever nominated for the Heisman Trophy.
As an eighth grader, Aaron’s athletic ability earned him a spot in the Under Armour All-American Middle School game, where he played under NFL legends Deion Sanders and Ed Reed. Beyond football, he was a multi-talented student who participated in track—setting a county record in shot put—basketball, piano, and the Calculus Project throughout middle school, all while maintaining a 3.5 GPA.
Aaron’s athleticism, intelligence, and charisma set him apart. He pursued modeling and acting, graduating from The Barbizon School of Modeling in 2019. He attended West Orange and Ocoee High Schools before taking his talents to St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, MD—a nationally ranked powerhouse. Despite his short time there, he made a lasting impact on the administration, his coaches, and teammates.
During the 2020-2021 school year at St. Frances, Aaron maintained a 4.2 GPA, served as Student Government Vice President, mentored teammates, and was inducted into the National Honor Society. A standout athlete, he was part of the Under Armour Future 50 and committed to the Under Armour All-American High School game. He was a five-star recruit, ranked #4 defensive end in the nation and #1 in Maryland, receiving over 30 Division I scholarship offers.
Beyond the field, Aaron’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He gave his life to God in 2014 and was an active member of River of Life Christian Center, where he built a close bond with his youth pastor and cherished Thursday Bible studies.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when schools shut down and students were sent home, Aaron’s life took an unexpected and heartbreaking turn.
In April 2020, he was diagnosed with an aggressive stage 4 midline glioma — a type of brain tumor. His father, Art Wilson, recalled the moment that led to the diagnosis: “We were actually working out in the back of the neighborhood. He said he had a headache, so we gave him some Tylenol. Later, he still had a headache. We asked if he wanted to go to the emergency room, and he said yes.”
Doctors were initially hopeful, explaining that the tumor was treatable. Aaron began chemotherapy and radiation, and even adopted a vegan lifestyle to support his health.
Despite his battle, Aaron kept his diagnosis private. “None of his teachers even knew he had cancer, none of 'em,” Art shared. “Aaron really wanted to keep this quiet. He just wanted to keep on being a regular kid.”
By January 2021, Aaron was preparing to return to St. Frances — but suddenly fell ill and began vomiting. Tests revealed two new tumors in his brain. Surgeons successfully removed them, but devastatingly, the cancer had spread to his spine.
“They treated it with radiation,” Art said, “but once it spread to the spine, it was pretty much… waiting for a miracle.” Aaron passed away on April 26, 2021.
Aaron’s life was a testament to perseverance, leadership, and kindness. He excelled in the classroom, dominated on the field, and touched the lives of everyone he met. His legacy of excellence, faith, and inspiration will continue to live on. Aaron was truly an extraordinary young man, and his impact will never be forgotten.
