Trevor Rowell of Hickory Flat did not let his battle with pediatric cancer stop him from becoming the third generation of his family to make Eagle Scout.

Trevor, 18, son of Mark and Lisa Rowell of Hickory Flat, received the award, which is the highest rank a Boy Scout can achieve, from Troop 465 of Canton.

As scouting runs in his family, with his dad and grandfather, Roger, both earning the honor, Trevor said he wanted to continue the tradition.

"It was something I always wanted to do," said the junior at Creekview High School.

Mark Rowell earned his rank in 1980; and Roger Rowell received his distinction in 1956.

For his Eagle Scout project, Trevor rebuilt the entrance at Shiloh United Methodist Church on Univeter Road in Canton. The project included a 20-foot wheelchair ramp and a large staircase on a concrete pad.

The ceremony was attended by Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood, who presented Trevor with a key to the city, and state Rep. Calvin Hill (R-Hickory Flat), who honored Trevor with a state resolution.

Trevor was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma at the age of 4. The rare form of pediatric cancer produces a fast-growing, malignant tumor that causes a noticeable lump on a child's body.

The cancer originated in his sinuses and eventually spread into this throat, which made it hard for him to breathe while lying on his back.

Trevor began chemotherapy in January 1996 and had a total of 32 radiation treatments. While he's been cancer free for 12 years, it resulted in facial deformities.

The experience not only brought the family closer together, but also has made them more aware of the fight against cancer, Mrs. Rowell said.

Mrs. Roswell is the Georgia area coordinator for ConKerr Cancer, which supplies handmade pillowcases to children battling life-threatening illnesses in hospitals.

Mark Rowell volunteers his time at Camp Sunshine and Scottish Rite by building model rockets with patients.

Trevor's older siste, Samantha, a Georgia State University student, is studying nursing and considering a career as a pediatric oncology nurse.

"It's pulled us all together," Mrs. Rowell added.

Trevor said he never let the cancer diagnosis and treatment deter his desire to become a Boy Scout.

In fact, he said, the ordeal taught him to make the best of his situation.

"It taught me to live life to the fullest and make every day count," he said. "God kept me on this Earth for a reason."

Creekview High Principal Dr. Bob Eddy said Trevor's persistence to reach his goal "serves as an example to all of us."

"He is not afraid of a challenge," he said, noting Trevor's decision to try out for and make the school's wrestling team as a freshman. "Trevor is well liked at Creekview and someone I hold in high regard."

When he's not scouting, Trevor likes wakeboarding and playing golf. He's also a member of the Atlanta Rowing Club.

Trevor said he would like to attend a two-year college after he graduates, and then transfer a four-year institution.

He said he would like to become a physical therapist or "do something with pediatric cancer."

Trevor's parents said they believe their son's ability to strive for excellence in the face of uncertainty can serve as inspiration for other teenagers.

"Never let what happened in the past stop you from living your dream," Mrs. Rowell added.