When our Amelia was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, we were thrust into a world of doctors and difficult decisions. Although family and friends rallied to our side, and strangers contacted us from across the country, we often still felt isolated and at times very much alone.
That’s when a group of new friends appeared. They represented the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation. They carried with them gifts for Amelia and a message for us: “You are not alone.”
When Amelia was at last out of the hospital, we learned about the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and its focus on fund-raising for childhood cancer research. We saw the money raised during its annual day of head shaving stay in our community to help treat children on the front lines of their cancer fight. The message was repeated: “You are not alone.”
Thanks in part to the efforts of these charities and other worthy foundations, Amelia received a boost to her spirits at crucial times in her journey. For that, the Smith family will always be grateful.
The message of hope echoes through everything they do.