Before Lily's classmate, Bode was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma in the Summer of 2019, I didn't think much about childhood cancer. I certainly didn't know that:
• Every day 43 kids in the US are expected to be diagnosed with cancer.
• Cancer is the number one cause of death by disease among children.
• More than 95% of childhood cancer survivors have significant health-related issues because of the current treatment options.
• Only 4% of the billions of dollars the government spends annually on cancer research is directed towards treating childhood cancer.
I will never be able to 'unknow,' these sobering facts, nor can I unknow the myriad ways cancer has stolen so much of Bode's childhood: the grueling chemotherapy & radiation treatments, the painful surgeries endured, and the unbearable weight carried by his parents and sister.
However, I have also witnessed unfathomable strength, courage, fortitude, and resilience. Bode is a real-deal superhero! The way he and his family boldly and bravely face this fight, every single day, has inspired me to do something I never imagined I was capable of - I'll be running 13.1 miles to honor and celebrate all of them.
Please consider supporting St. Baldrick's Foundation - for Bode, Anabel, Bryan, Sarah, and all the children and their families who should never have to have their world turned upside down by cancer. St. Baldrick's Foundation is the largest non-government supporter of childhood cancer research grants. Your donation will help find cures and give survivors the long and healthy lives they deserve. Can you help? Every little bit counts. Thank you so much!