Father with cancer gives his last hug to his son before amputating his arm, and the story goes viral

Father with cancer gives final hug to son before amputating arm, and story goes viral (Photo: TikTok)

A man who gave his son a final hug before undergoing the amputation of his arm left thousands of internet users in tears.

Shaun Lemberg, 32, was diagnosed with sarcoma in May 2024. Due to the tumor’s growth, which was affecting blood flow in his arm, Shaun was informed that he would need to amputate the limb.

In January 2025, Shaun was filmed by his wife, Isla, at the hospital, just before the procedure, giving his 17-month-old son a final hug. In an interview with Newsweek, Isla spoke about how significant the moment was for her husband to find strength.

“It meant a lot to [Shaun] to lift up Archie and see him smile. It gives him motivation to get through anything. I was very emotional seeing that happen, but also very proud of my brave husband.”

In the comments of the video, which has already garnered over 500,000 views and 26,000 likes, internet users were deeply moved by the scene. “It will just be a different kind of hug,” wrote one TikTok user. “Sending prayers,” said another.

“Parents don’t get enough credit for being strong for their kids and for us, even when their hearts are broken, they carry all of our hearts with them,” a third user reflected.

@islarachael The bravest, strongest, most incredible man that we’re so lucky to call ours. #cancer #sarcoma #amputation #surgery ♬ These Memories – Hollow Coves

Photo and video: TikTok @islarachael. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.