This year Kristen and I will be participating in the 2026 Kayaking the Keys for Hope paddling trip. SebastianStrong has been hosting this event for 6 years, and it's our second year participating. Our journey begins in the serene waters of Key Largo and ends with a heartwarming finale in Key West, where children and families touched by childhood cancer will join our paddlers for the final, memorable mile. This event isn’t just about the distance covered; it’s a celebration of hope, courage, and the indomitable spirit of those we’re honoring and supporting. By participating, following along, and donating, you’re not just supporting an event; you’re fueling groundbreaking research for less toxic, more targeted childhood cancer treatments. Whether you're paddling with us or following along, your support brings us closer to a future where cancer treatments are not only effective but kinder to the little superheroes they aim to save.
Personally, we are raising money in honor of Sebastian Ortiz, our brother's best friend. I didn't know Sebastian personally but the love that my brother has for him and his memory inspires me to paddle. In all reality, none of us should be doing this. None of us shold be paddling. None of us should know that the best treatment option available to Sebastian was more than 40 years old at the time of his diagnosis. None of us should know that less than 4% of funds raised each year for cancer research go towards pediatric cancer. None of us should know a child who's life has been cut short by cancer. His determination and never-quit attitude has inspired us to be part of the solution.
We are asking for donations in $35 increments. Sebastian's running number was 35 and is an important number to his family and us. You can also leave a message about why you decided to donate – we’d love to hear from you! If you can think of others who might be interested in making a donation, please forward this page to them or share it on social media! Sebastian Strong is a family driven, people focused organization and you’d be helping them (and me!) by spreading the word.
Together we're funding innovative research for childhood cancers. SebastianStrong is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that funds discovery science to cure childhood cancers and supports families affected by this disease. It has received the highest level of recognition for transparency from GuideStar, the world’s largest source of information about nonprofit organizations. When you support SebastianStrong, you are helping to ensure that no family has to face childhood cancer alone. You are funding HOPE.