Avery “The Poke Kid” Garcia-Valentin Dies at 12 After Nearly Eight Years Battling Rare Childhood Cancer

Avery Garcia-Valentin, affectionately known online as “Avery The Poke Kid,” has died at the age of 12 after spending nearly eight years battling a rare form of childhood cancer.

Avery was just 5 years old when he was diagnosed with pancreatoblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer affecting the pancreas. His diagnosis began a long and difficult journey that included numerous treatments, surgeries and rounds of radiation therapy.

Despite the challenges, Avery repeatedly fought through setbacks. His family placed him in hospice care twice during his illness, but he continued to recover and return home, giving his loved ones more time together.

By late August 2026, however, Avery’s family announced that cancer-directed treatments were no longer controlling the disease. Rather than continuing treatments that were no longer providing the desired benefit, the family chose to focus on Avery’s comfort and quality of life, surrounding him with the people and things he loved.

On September 17, the family announced that Avery had transitioned to hospice care. Recent scans showed that the cancer had spread extensively, including tumors in both lungs and a large tumor on his shoulder that was affecting the surrounding bone and muscle. He also required supplemental oxygen.

Even during his final days, Avery had one special goal: reaching 100,000 YouTube subscribers and earning the platform’s Silver Creator Award. The Pokémon community rallied around him, helping Avery surpass the milestone. His channel has since grown well beyond 100,000 subscribers.

On September 18, Avery’s family took him to the hospital for what they initially believed would be a routine visit. His condition suddenly deteriorated, and his family stayed by his side.

They eventually took Avery to the hospital’s rooftop garden, one of his favorite places. Surrounded by his loved ones, he spent his final moments with his family close beside him.

According to the family’s announcement, Avery died at approximately 7 p.m. on September 18, 2026. Some reports have listed September 19, but the date reported by the family was September 18.

After his death, members of the Pokémon community continued sharing videos, memories and moments from Avery’s final days. One especially memorable video showed him opening a Pokémon card pack and pulling a Jirachi card, a moment that resonated deeply with fans who had followed his journey.

Avery’s story brought together thousands of people who may never have met him in person but became part of his journey through his videos and love of Pokémon.

On September 25, Avery’s family held a private memorial service while also hosting a public livestream, allowing supporters around the world to join them in remembering a boy whose determination, personality and love of Pokémon touched a remarkably large community.

Source: People.com