Dear Friends,
As many of you know, this past June my patient partner, Malia, passed away after an unbelievably brave battle with relapsed neuroblastoma. I met Malia in 2014, when I was paired with her through Dana-Farber’s patient partner program. Malia had fought her first battle against neuroblastoma beginning when she was just two and a half. I was officially partnered with Malia for four years, and I so looked forward to our poster decorating parties, patient partner events, and the pasta party. I didn’t spend a lot of time with Malia over the years, but you only needed a brief interaction with her to know how incredibly special she was. She radiated joy, and strength, and courage, and love. She was amazing. Sometimes people just really touch your heart, and Malia was one of those people. She has been one of the greatest inspirations of my life. As has her family. Following Malia’s first battle with neuroblastoma, they started a non-profit to support other families who are navigating the nightmare they navigated (www.forkidssakefoundation.org). There are few things more thoughtful and generous than that act, and they have devoted themselves to that cause.
Needless to say, losing Malia has been heartbreaking. And for those who have read about her life, or shared in the stories those who knew and loved her have offered, you know just how many people this young and mighty human inspired. I feel so lucky to be one of them. I wanted to do something to honor Malia’s life, and her family’s mission. So this April, I will dust off my sneakers, and get back out on the Boston Marathon course. No doubt very slowly, but with more resolve and inspiration than ever.
I am running for Dana-Farber, and this year, in Malia’s honor, all of the funds I raise will be donated to neuroblastoma research. No child, no family, should have to go through this. And there is a cure, it just needs to be found, and to be found it needs to be funded. Pediatric cancer funding at the national level is woefully lacking, and we must do better. In order to specially designate these funds for neuroblastoma research, I had to set a lofty fundraising goal, and this is where you all come in. I have committed to raising $20,000 this year, and I know I can do it with your help.
I am so grateful for your support.
