James Dobson, a 13-year-old Spotsylvania boy who battled brain cancer, passed away Sunday at his home, according to an obituary posted on Fredericksburg.com.

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James, who attended Battlefield Elementary and Battlefield Middle School, was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was 5.

"He fought a long fight, a hard fight, and he never gave up - not even 'til the end," his mother, Cathy Dobson, said,

He gained national recognition when, instead of asking for presents on his 12th birthday, he asked for letters. Thousands of people sent James letters, including professional wrestler John Cena and college football coach Nick Saban.

James' father, Danny Dobson, said, "We were overwhelmed with 6,000 cards and numerous memorabilia and stuff."

Cathy added, "If my son was here right now, he would say thank you for everything. But I know he is not in pain any more, and he is running and he is playing."

Contributions in his name can be made to: 

Children's Hospital Foundation
801 Roeder Road, Suite 300,
Silver Spring, MD 20910

An online guest book for James is located here.