This week, we're teaming up with ABC's Extreme Makeover American Dream Edition to bring you the amazing stories of some North Texans who are giving of their time despite their own hardships. Every day we will highlight each of our six North Texas winners who are having their dreams fulfilled by the program. Today, we journey east of Dallas to Quinlan, where one family has endured tremendous heartache — but through it all, they continue to love and inspire others.

Our Neighbor

Cynthia Izaguirre reports

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QUINLAN, Texas — Six-year-old Andrew Russell and his family have been an inspiration to many people. In 2006, at the age of three, Andrew was diagnosed with a brain tumor and had to undergo two brain surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy.

"After the first surgery, he wasn't able to walk or talk or eat, and he was 3 years old at the time," said Andrew's father, Michael Russell. "He had to learn how to walk again and talk again."

One year later, an MRI showed that Andrew's tumor had come back and spread into his brain as well as his spine. His condition caused facial paralysis and balance issues.

Just six months ago, doctors told his family that Andrew had two to eight months to live, but a new chemotherapy treatment has kept him alive and his tumors today are stable.

"He has proven since his diagnosis just how strong he is and how brave he is and how very early he is our hero," Andrew's father said.

"He does ask about his face, and that hurts me a lot," said the boy's mother, Misty Russell. "We had an incident where some kids were making fun of him. He came home and said, 'Why do I smile like this?'"

Misty and Michael say Andrew has taught them to continue smiling and never to waver on their commitment to helping others.

Despite losing his job and even though medical bills are mounting, Michael Russell and his family have worked tirelessly by participating in several Relay for Life events through the American Cancer Society.

"They've been through so much, but they continue to percevere and trust in the Lord," said Kathy Russell, Andrew's grandmother. "[They] know that whatever happens, we're going to have to deal with it."

Michael has found a new job, but insurance co-payments, doctor visits and the traveling involved makes it a struggle to keep food on the table.

Despite it all, the Russells are happy for every day together, and feel a genuine concern to give back to the community that has given so much to them.

For our grand prize winner, Helen Zimba, WFAA will host a baby shower for Bryan's House this Friday night at Victory Park. In our next Our Neigbor report Tuesday on News 8 Daybreak, we will highlight another North Texas Extreme Makeover American Dream Edition winner. She's a woman who doesn't let her illness rob her of joy.

E-mail cizaguire@wfaa.com