It was a graduation for one.

In a special ceremony yesterday in a packed 'Aiea High auditorium, Andrew Sato got an honorary high school diploma to recognize his strength and courage in the face of incredible adversity.

The 17-year-old foster child with terminal leukemia has missed much of his senior year because of his illness. But the friendships he made since entering the school in his sophomore year have remained strong.

The entire senior class attended the graduation yesterday, offering support through roaring applause, song and dozens of lei. In an address to the crowd, Sato said he was moved by the outpouring of love.

"Thank you so much everyone," he told attendees.

He ended his short speech by shooting his arms in the air.

The gesture spurred an eruption of applause and shouts of support.

'Aiea High principal Michael Tokioka conferred the diploma, saying Sato was an example for other students to follow. Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona also spoke, telling attendees Sato should be praised for his ability to smile, laugh and encourage others despite such incredible hardships.

Sato was first diagnosed with leukemia at 9, shortly after his mother abandoned him in a park. As he was bounced from home to home, he also underwent treatment and eventually went into remission, but the cancer returned in April 2006. He beat it again, only for it to come back late last year.

This time, it was stronger than ever before.

Sato is not undergoing treatment for his cancer.

It is unclear how long he will live.

Meanwhile, many readers were touched by his story in yesterday's Advertiser and reached out to help with donations and words of support. Heart Gallery Hawaii, which helps foster kids, fielded more than 100 calls yesterday from readers wanting to help cover funeral expenses for Sato.

David Louis, executive director for the nonprofit, which helped organize the graduation yesterday, said he got 38 voice messages alone while his phone was off during the ceremony yesterday morning.

A tally of donations was not yet available.

Reach Mary Vorsino at mvorsino@honoluluadvertiser.com.