At just four months old, Leilani was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma, a cancer where solid mass tumors grow rapidly throughout the body. The largest of these was already the size of a tennis ball in her tiny chest. The CAT scans were beyond terrifying, and those first few days felt like an unreal nightmare. As US Naval Academy graduates, 10-year military pilots, and now full-time grad students, my wife, Liz, and I are both accustomed to handling challenges, but nothing could have prepared us for the heartbreak of watching our infant face something so overwhelming, so early in her life.
Thankfully, Leilani was blessed to undergo treatments at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, whose incredible doctors, nurses, and staff became our lifeline. They delivered world-class medical care and provided unparalleled support, while also giving Leilani a beautiful first year of life. She celebrated her first Halloween, met Santa, posed for her first professional photoshoot, had her first piece of candy, and even enjoyed a private concert from Noah Kahan—all at the Jimmy Fund. She practiced walking while hooked up to a chemo bag. She developed her own personality, a toddler’s attitude, and fast friendships. Through it all, Leilani endured her treatments with a joy that defied understanding. She laughed—so much. More than any baby I’ve ever known. And together, she and the DFCI team began beating the cancer. Today, my daughter is in remission.
I owe everything to Dana Farber. Their protocol research and implementation saved my daughter’s life. So, this 245-pound dad bod is going to run the Boston Marathon as a way to thank an extraordinary organization. Every dollar I raise will go towards advancing cancer research and improving cancer survival rates for kids just like Leilani.
Thank you for deciding to partner with me on this journey. Your support means more to our family than I could ever express.
