In 2001 at just a month old, our son and little brother, Brandon, was diagnosed with a form of cancer called neuroblastoma. There are no words to describe the fear and heartache that consumed our lives. Today, Brandon is a healthy and thriving 8 year old. But never a day passes when we don't realize it could have turned out so differently for him. Indeed, we have walked alongside many, many children who have not been so lucky. Some have endured toxic treatments which have left their little bodies so weak they are unable to fight common illnesses. Their major organs have been damaged by the treatments used to save their lives, and young adulthood for these survivors is perilous. Others we have known and loved have not survived the disease. Our hearts have broken as we've watched cancer so cruelly take over their little bodies. These children - God's angels - have changed our lives forever.
We believe that cures for cancers that affect children are within reach. Survival rates inch up as research leads to better treatments, newer and innovative therapies. We cannot let up with our support but must do more, because tens of thousands of children are pinning their hope on our efforts. We never thought our child would be among those - who ever thinks something like childhood cancer will hit their lives?! But it did, and we are eternally grateful for all those who came before us and advanced research to the point it is now. It's our turn to pay it forward, and we will.
We ask you to support Ryan and Brandon's team, the Purple Monkeys, in the 16th Annual Lauren's Run and CURE Childhood Cancer Annual Picnic.