DETROIT – A Detroit family turned grief into purpose Saturday, hosting a 5K walk at Alfred Brush Ford Park to honor 15-year-old Gakobe Milton, who died after a battle with cancer. The event drew community members, supporters — and even a special guest — as the family works to carry on Gakobe’s dream of spreading love.
Gakobe was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at 13 in 2022. Despite the weight of that diagnosis, his family says he never lost his spirit.
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“He kept strong and never lost the fight. Never lost anything,” said Kaleb Milton, Gakobe’s younger brother.
Though the family had relocated to Atlanta before his diagnosis, Detroit was always close to Gakobe’s heart. His mother, Kuleesha Milton, Founder and CEO of the Gakobe Strong Foundation, recalls the vision her son had even while undergoing treatment.
“He said mom when I’m done with treatment here in Atlanta I want to go all over the world and I want to spread the love and give love… but my first stop is Detroit,” Kuleesha said.
Turning pain into purpose
Gakobe passed away at 15, but his family is committed to making sure his legacy lives on. The Gakobe Strong Foundation was created to support other families navigating the devastating impact of cancer — financially, emotionally and beyond.
“I want to bring awareness, that’s my most important. Not just for pediatric cancer, but for anybody that has been affected by cancer. I want to give back to the community because I was a mom who faced hardships. I had to choose between work and my child,” Kuleesha said.
Saturday’s 5K brought that mission to life along the Detroit riverfront. Detroit Pistons mascot Hooper made a special appearance, and the foundation received recognition from Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield. For the Milton family, the moment was both emotional and empowering.
Gakobe’s twin brother, Gioni Milton, spoke directly to his brother’s memory.
“I’m going to be strong for him. I know he’s always with us. I love you so much Kobe and Kobe Strong forever,” Gioni said.
Kuleesha says she finds comfort in her faith and in knowing her son’s spirit is still present.
“He used to tell me, God got me and God got you,” she said.
Foundation eyes growth, more families to serve
The Gakobe Strong Foundation has a lot in the works, with the goal of helping as many families as possible. The organization is already making waves beyond Michigan.
A Georgia House bill was signed into law in Gakobe’s honor — known as the Gakobe Milton Act. The law allows local school boards across Georgia to award high school diplomas to terminally ill students receiving end-of-life care, even if they have not completed all graduation requirements.
To learn more or support the foundation, visit gakobestrong.org.