Childhood cancer is something we never thought we’d have to navigate as a family. When you go through it, it completely shifts your perspective on everything. I came across this quote from another cancer mom that explains it better than I ever could:

“Childhood cancer divides your life into a ‘before’ and ‘after.’ There is a person you were before your kid's diagnosis, and the person you become after it. It changes the way you see the world, what you worry about, and what matters to you. You love a lot harder and don't take anything for granted. It can also make it harder for you to relate to people because your reality has changed in ways that are so difficult to explain unless you've lived it.”

Since last September, Ethan finished the final cycles of his chemotherapy regimen. We are endlessly grateful to share that he remains in remission, with no growth in the tumor in his spinal canal. His oncology team has finally been able to space out his scans and labs, his counts and immune system have bounced back, and we are eagerly looking forward to his port coming out this September.

Today, Ethan is thriving and getting to just be a normal, playful toddler. After months of staying home with his Babba and Grandpa whose support allowed us to navigate treatment while continuing our military service, he has officially started daycare.

Ethan has shown us what true strength looks like. This journey has taught us to slow down, hold onto the little moments, and realize just how good we have it.

While we celebrate Ethan’s milestones, we know that unfortunately, not every child makes it:

Cancer remains the #1 disease-related cause of death for children in the United States.

Approximately 1 in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20.

Only about 4% of federal cancer research funding is dedicated solely to pediatric cancers.

Every child fighting this disease deserves the world and a real fighting chance.

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation provided our family with amazing resources during our hardest days. This September, for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, our family is taking on the Million Mile to pay it forward and fund life-saving pediatric cancer research.

Join us in the fight:

Donate: Help us reach our goal, every single dollar goes directly to critical childhood cancer research.

Log Miles: Join our team, lace up your shoes, and track your walking, running, or cycling miles with us this month.

Share: Spread the word by sharing Ethan’s page with your friends and community.

To our family and friends who have supported us at the various steps in our journey, we can’t even begin to explain the gratitude we have for you. Thank you for walking this road with us and standing behind kids like Ethan.