Updated

He didn't wear his cape, but Superman's appearance at an early Halloween party boosted the spirits of a heroic 10-year-old battling a rare form of cancer.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton showed up at a neighborhood party in Concord, N.C., to celebrate with Elijah Hughes on Friday night - and he came bearing gifts for the dozens of children who attended the event.

Newton brought an ice-cream truck and brownies to the festivities as the community rallied to throw an early Halloween party for Elijah, who was dressed as The Joker for the event.

"As a mom it absolutely melts your heart," Becky Hughes, Elijah's mother, told Charlotte station WCNC of Newton's surprise appearance. "It brings tears to my eyes."

Elijah's favorite holiday is Halloween but neighbors and friends came together to celebrate the day in advance because doctors are unsure if he will survive until Oct. 31. Elijah was cheered by his friends as he was wheeled door-to-door to receive his treats.

(h/t WCNC.com)