HIGHLAND | Months of fundraising efforts for James Joshua Golub culminated Wednesday in checks totaling $18,028 during a celebration at Highland High School. (Watch the video.)

The 15-year-old known as "JJ" is a sophomore who has cancer.

Arriving directly from Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago where JJ undergoes chemotherapy for osteosarcoma, the Golubs met with more than 100 elementary and high school students, administrators and civic members.

One by one, adult representatives and youth members came forth to deliver their team's efforts in varying amounts of money to an overwhelmed James Sr. and Susan Golub.

"We want to thank you for your prayers and they are working because he is cancer-free right now," said a teary-eyed Susan Golub.

The 42-year-old mom said the community's outpouring helped the family focus on taking care of JJ without worrying about bills as much.

"We never knew how much he was loved," she said wiping her face. "We knew he was loved by us, but you kids have been the driving force behind us. Thank you so much for that."

JJ's father agreed.

"I want to thank everybody for supporting my family during these times," said James Golub Sr., 43. "This is a strong community. I'm glad I live here."

The lineup of donors include Warren and Southridge elementary schools, orchestra and swimming teams, Theater Company, Key Club, Student Council and the Lake County clerk's office in Hammond.

JJ was presented with a Toshiba laptop along with a giant student-made "Get Well JJ" card.

"I just know he is an awesome kid to be around," said Joshua Tryon, a senior and close friend to JJ.

Said JJ softly, "It's nice to know everyone cares enough to do all this."