I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been nominated as a Visionary of the Year candidate for Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society — the organization behind powerful events like Light The Night).
So, what does that mean? Over the next several weeks, I’ll be working to raise funds that directly support people navigating the unexpected and overwhelming journey of blood cancer. It’s scary. It’s life-changing. My hope is that this campaign can make it just a little less so.
Like me, I’m sure you know people who’ve been diagnosed with — and survived — cancer. Through my work at KWCH, I regularly meet families receiving devastating news, many of whom reach out simply asking, “What do we do next?” I’ve always tried to connect them with the right resources — but now, my goal is bigger. I don’t just want to point families in the right direction. I want to help carry them there.
I’m dedicating this campaign to the many families I’ve met through the years, including a little girl named Reese. She was diagnosed with leukemia the day before her fourth birthday. Reese endured two rounds of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. I had the privilege of helping share her journey — including fundraisers her family organized along the way. Watching them struggle to balance treatment, finances, and simply being a family changed me.
I never want to see families fighting to pay for healthcare when their focus should be on healing and each other.
Today, I’m happy to share that Reese is now 10 years old — a thriving, sweet, and spunky middle schooler. Her story is proof of what’s possible when families are supported.
Diagnosis has also touched many members of our family, including some recently. My father-in-law had a mass removed later in life, and we were fortunate that he was OK. Duane lived a healthy life and was able to meet all three of his grandkids. My mom Di was diagnosed with cancer decades ago. I don’t think they thought it was possible that she could have me – surprise!
Sadly, though, not every case is a victory. My mother-in-law passed away from brain cancer in the early 1990s, when my husband was just a kid. Rosalie was a kind, creative woman who loved her job at Beechcraft and was always picking up a camera. (It’s so fitting that Tim’s a photographer.) While I enjoy hearing stories about her, I wish my husband had more time with his mom. No kid should live through the death of a parent so young.
That’s why I’m asking for your help – for the Reese’s, the Rosalie’s and everyone in-between.
If you’re able, I would be honored if you’d consider contributing to my Visionary of the Year campaign. My goal is to raise $100,000, which will help support hundreds of families like Reese’s and my husband’s — families who deserve hope, help, and a little breathing room during the hardest moments of their lives.
Thank you for always supporting me, and for considering support for this cause that means so much to our family.
