13-Year-Old Ephrata, Pennsylvania Native and Ephrata Mounts Football Standout AJ Martin Diagnosed With Hodgkin’s Lymphoma; Community Rallies for Support
FootballSuruchiJanuary 27, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 27, 2026
AJ Martin, a 13-year-old Ephrata, Pennsylvania native and standout athlete for the Ephrata Junior High Football team, the Ephrata Mounts, and his family are facing a difficult time as he was recently diagnosed with stage 4B Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
What began as a possible infection quickly turned into a life-changing journey for AJ and his loved ones.
He had just finished his football season this past October and was eagerly anticipating the holiday season when he noticed a lump on his neck.
Concerned, his mother, Elsa Martin, arranged for him to be seen by a doctor. Initially, a 10-day course of antibiotics to treat what was thought to be an infection, the lump did not improve.
AJ was then referred to the oncology department at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, where a series of tests and a biopsy confirmed the cancer diagnosis.
AJ began chemotherapy on Friday, January 16, 2026. His mother shared the news on social media, saying:
“We got some very hard news last night about A.J. He was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and they want to start chemo as soon as possible. We are obviously all very heartbroken. 💔😭 I will be starting a CaringBridge site soon. Please join us in praying for God’s healing. Isaiah 53:5 🙏”
Elsa MartinDespite the challenges ahead, AJ has shown incredible courage and strength.
Elsa shared details of his first chemotherapy session, describing the long, emotionally exhausting day that started at 7:15 a.m. and ended around 4:00 p.m.
AJ experienced immediate side effects from the treatment but remained brave throughout.
The family was grateful for the support of a Christian nurse at the hospital who helped make the day more manageable and comforting for AJ.
Beyond his battle with cancer, AJ is known for his athletic talent and dedication to football.
He has earned several honors on the field and dreams of becoming a professional athlete. His teammates and coaches describe him as hardworking, determined, and full of heart.
The Martin family now faces a rigorous schedule of doctor’s visits and chemotherapy treatments, which take place on the 1st and 15th of every month in Hershey. Managing these appointments alongside daily life and work has been a challenge, but the family remains deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from their community.
In response to AJ’s diagnosis, the Ephrata community has come together, offering prayers, donations, and encouragement.
A CaringBridge page and GoFundMe campaign have been established to provide updates and help the family with medical and logistical expenses.
Elsa Martin expressed the family’s gratitude and hope, writing:
“Please join us in prayer for complete healing over A.J. and peace and wisdom for Cliff, Elsa, Hailey, and Madi. A.J. is so brave and feels the Lord’s presence as he tries to look to the future. Thank you, Jesus, for A.J. and his beautiful life. We pray for healing and peace over A.J. and his family.”
The Ephrata Mounts, his friends, and neighbors are united in prayer and hope for his speedy recovery.
For updates on AJ Martin’s journey, visit his CaringBridge page: https://www.caringbridge.org/site/a064a797-ee6c-11f0-8541-3539fed590a9
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SuruchiSuruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.
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