In Memory of Abigail Collins' Fundraising Page

In January of 2019, my daughter was diagnosed with a rare, highly aggressive form of Cancer (Osteosarcoma).  It first presented in her leg, which we took equally aggressive steps to treat, including chemo first, then a rotationplasty.

While we were hopeful for a positive outcome, ultimately, we discovered that the Cancer has spread to her lungs and; after numerous attempts to control the disease, she lost her battle on October 22, 2019.   I can’t imagine how the hole left behind will be filled.  So I’m doing the only thing I can think of to do; honoring her memory in a way I think she would want...  helping others.

This page is not dedicated to how she lost her life, but, rather, to how she lived it and the people that supported her.  Abby Collins was a rare personality in this world.   She was kind and generous.   Creative and silly.   Thoughtful and spunky.   Loving and caring.  Above all, she was enthusiastic, hopeful and the bravest person I’ve ever known. 

While she loved all animals, she was obsessed with pigs (as anyone who met her would tell you).    And, though, Abby never was able to have a pig of her own, she thoroughly enjoyed the visits from pigs that family and friends were able to arrange.   Of course, her love of pigs never took away her devotion to her 3 dogs and variety of pets at home.   Often, it was the thought of getting home to the dogs that carried her through any number of procedures and hospital stays.

Abigail took each upcoming milestone with a smile and positive outlook.   She faced it all with the expectation that she would prevail; even as the chances lessened over time.   With the help and support of many people (including Make-A-Wish) Abigail was even able to enjoy the trip of her dreams this summer that included both a visit to Disney and a Cruise; the cruise being her favorite adventure, by far.   The memory of her smile during that trip will never fade.

Abby equally loved and was loved by her sisters, family, friends and team of doctors (who tried everything to help her over the past 10 months).   Most of all, though, she loved her Mom; who stuck by her side every single day.   Who was her primary source of strength her entire 9 years but particularly since her diagnosis.

I can only ask that we help all other "Abbies" out there.   If you are anything like me, you may wonder what happens to donations once made.  Personally, I know I have wondered this in the past; hoping that the right people received the help that funding was meant for.   I can say that, as a parent whose child had hundreds of interactions with the staff at the Jimmy Fund, I no longer wonder.   I witnessed directly how the Clinic proactively impacted the lives of their patients.  How they go out of their way to know, support and offer comfort to those who are in the most need (children who are scared and often don’t understand what is happening to them or why).    The staff at the Jimmy Fund, Dana-Farber and Children’s Hospital are some of the most heroic people I’ve met and the organizations have earned my family’s unending gratitude.

There is no short supply of worthy charities in the world and, of course, you should give the cause(s) that are most meaningful to you.  However, as we enter into the season of giving I simply ask that you consider this page and help keep Abigail’s memory alive by helping others in her name.

We will forever love and miss you, Abby.  Thank you for being in our lives.