In June 2020, at just 18 months old, Connor was diagnosed with an inoperable brainstem glioma. Our world changed in an instant. We were told his tumor was intertwined with his brainstem and that his prognosis could be as little as 6–9 months. As parents, there are no words for what it feels like to hear that about your child.
More than six years later, Connor continues to prove just how incredible he is. His tumor has remained stable, and today he is a happy, energetic 7-year-old who loves sports, making people laugh, and keeping us on our toes. We know how incredibly fortunate we are to be able to watch him grow.
From the beginning of Connor’s diagnosis, Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada has been there for our family. Childhood cancer affects so much more than a child’s medical care,it impacts the entire family. Candlelighters has given us a community of people who truly understand that. They have provided support, resources, activities, and opportunities for our entire family to connect with other families walking similar paths.
Some of our most meaningful memories have come through Candlelighters. They have given Connor and his sisters opportunities to simply be kids and have fun together, while also giving us a place where we never have to explain what it is like to live with childhood cancer. From family events to Camp Cartwheel and everything in between, Candlelighters has continued to remind us that we are not walking this journey alone.
That is why raising money for Candlelighters means so much to our family. The money raised helps them continue showing up for families like ours,from the terrifying days immediately following a diagnosis to the years of scans, uncertainty, milestones, and survivorship that follow.
Connor has been given the incredible gift of time, and we want to use that gift to give back to an organization that has stood beside our family for more than six years.
Every donation, no matter the amount, helps Candlelighters continue to support Nevada children with cancer and their families. We are so grateful for everyone who chooses to support Hope for Connor and help us give back to a community that has given our family so much.
One Team. One Fight. Hope for Connor.