Two years ago I attended an event called Jeepers Creepers. It was around Halloween and the money generated was donated to Brenner Children's Hospital. At that event I met the most amazing and wonderful little girl named Carol Lynne. She was dressed like her favorite Disney character, Buzz Lightyear. She made her way (by running full speed) to Nanook and she hugged and kissed him. Her grandmother was with her and told me that CBug (which is what most people called her) had Rhabdomyosarcoma. Looking at her you would have no idea this child was even sick. Dale explained they were waiting for some test results to come back and were praying for good news.
Two months later I received a call from Make-a-Wish that they were having a Princess Party for a little girl and and she asked for some dogs to be there. I had no idea until we showed up that this party was for CBug. It was like a punch in the gut. This sweet little child would be leaving soon and her family was certainly making the most of the time she had left.
On December 31, 2016 Carol Lynne continued on a new journey. One of the most heartbreaking things I have ever had to deal with.
In January I signed up along with some friends and formed a team for the St. Baldricks event at Finnagans Wake with CarolLynne as our Honor Child. During the course of the year myself and many teammates collected donations. On September 24, 2017 I shaved my head and we raised almost $3,000. I had so much support including CBug's mom and grandmother.
Even though it crushed me when she left I will never be sad that I got to meet her and spend time with this little girl. She taught me many things including how to be strong when I feel like I had no strength.
So, I am not shaving my head this year but there are many children out their who are sick like Carol Lynne. Many parents who have or will bury their children due to cancer. Even typing the word makes my stomach turn. Please help to stop the heartache these parents feel. Please help find a cure so no more child have to be lost.
I miss this child every day. Every time I see Nanook interact with a kid I think of her. Every time I see anything Toy Story I think of her. Every time I get annoyed because my hair is doing something that makes me look silly, I think of her.
#CBUGSTRONG
