For anyone with a young child, this will probably touch your heart.
In December 2008, my 2 year old niece, Sallie Gilmer, was diagnosed with Leukemia. The roller coaster that her family has been on since then is unbelievable, from steroids, chemotherapy to one near death experience. To see such a small child have to deal with these severe health problems is really a heart wrenching experience. Luckily, Sallie is a true warrior. She prays, she battles and she refuses to let anything rob her of her spunky attitude. Now, at 3 years old, she continues to battle her ups and downs, but she is also a shining example of the positive attitude and beautiful smile children can have in the face of such adversity.
Together, her family and friends are creating "Sallie's Faith Foundation". We are working with Emmanuel Hospital in their development of their new Pediatric Oncology wing, hoping to implement some "well being" programs such as gas cards for families who have to travel to and from the hospital for treatment and during hospital stays. Along with the local work with Emmanuel, we are hoping to raise money for research grants aimed at finding advances in treatments for childhood cancers.
This foundation is just getting itself off the ground, but I am sure that only positive and exciting things are on the horizon. I am currently the secretary on the board for the foundation, as well as an artistic/image voice, and I am also hoping to contribute heavily in the planning, managing and the execution of our fundraisers.
Look for updates as we continue to fine tune our work and start to get ourselves out in the community!
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