Mack & Payson, 3-year-old friends who battled cancer together, reunite for the 1st time

Mack gave Payson flowers and the two friends hugged.

ByEric Noll andHaley Yamada ABCNews logo
Wednesday, August 11, 2021
Preschool friends who battled cancer together reunite for the 1st time
"No matter what, just look to the children because they'll lead the way," Payson's mother said.

PHOENIX -- Payson Altice and Mack Porter met at Phoenix Children's Hospital while they were both fighting cancer in 2021.

After weeks apart, both are in remission and out of the hospital, so on July 21, the 3-year-olds reunited.

During the reunion, Mack gave Payson flowers and the two friends hugged and danced.

Payson, Mack and their families, told "World News Tonight" that the moment was unforgettable.

SEE ALSO: Teen cuts off beloved 19-inch Afro for kids with cancer, raises $39K

"That was a blessing to just watch our children be children," said Mack's mother, Danielle Porter.

Payson's mother, Tracey Altice, said that Mack and Payson set an example for how to get through tough situations.

"During these scary and hard times," she said. "No matter what, just look to the children because they'll lead the way."

SEE ALSO: Hugh Jackman urges fans to wear sunscreen after undergoing skin biopsy