Kids with Cancer

What Cancer Cannot Do

by St. Baldrick's Foundation
March 30, 2012

Bryson%20and%20Dana_cropped.jpg
These powerful words by an unknown author hang in the hallway at the clinic where Bryson P. was treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). His mother, Myra, read them aloud every time they went in for treatment.

Bryson gave this handwritten copy as a gift to a woman at their church when she was diagnosed with cancer — one small example of the care and love he freely gave to others. This same handwritten copy was handed out at Bryson’s Celebration of Life ceremony, after he passed away from childhood cancer when he was 8 years old.

HandwrittenPoem.jpg
Mothers_Day_cropped.jpg
Myra and Bryson learned about St. Baldrick’s through Bryson’s pediatric oncologist, Dr. Stuart Gold, a longtime shavee and St. Baldrick’s grant recipient. Dr. Gold invited them to watch him shave his head in solidarity with his patients. Many people who knew Bryson continue to participate with the Foundation in his memory.

“I believe God put Bryson in the paths of so many to give them an example of strength and courage and … just simple kindness,” says Myra. “Some people like to be recognized by their own names, but my most treasured moments are when I’m out in public and someone will approach me and say…’I know you. You’re Bryson’s mom!'”

We can all continue Bryson’s legacy of spreading kindness and encouragement to others. Share his story, make a donation in his name, or participate in his memory.


Share: