Danny Nickerson, a five-year-old from Massachusetts, is celebrating his sixth birthday today. While his birthday may have some of the expected elements of others his age, ABC News reports there is a shadow over his celebration. Danny is battling a cancer known as diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.

Still, Danny has a major birthday wish that is coming true. When asked what he wanted for his birthday, Danny only wanted birthday cards. That is exactly what he got. ABC News reported on his story and the family’s P.O. box became flooded with cards and packages from strangers. Danny received mail from around the U.S. and from outside the country as well.

Danny’s mother, Carley Nickerson, set up a Facebook page for Danny. Carley has received messages from people from Norway to Australia, and across the U.S. These strangers have given an outpouring of love and prayers, asking how they can also send something to Danny. Now, Danny has received at least 8,500 cards and 900 packages for his birthday.

The cards and packages took three cars and one rented truck to bring home. The family is also taking some time opening everything. In one day, they were able to open about 200, so Danny will be enjoying these for many days to come. A man from Newton, MA, sent a card that he wanted to make sure would stand out. His card was four feet by six feet wide, with a custom photo stamp on the envelope.

This joyful time is much deserved for Danny. According to the Boston Children’s Hospital, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma is an aggressive childhood brain tumor that is difficult to treat. Danny’s tumor is inoperable, which can be common with this type of cancer, and is often chemotherapy-resistant. There are options for treatment, but Danny has a tough battle ahead.