There’s a young boy named Cameron in Seattle attempting to ice skate for the first time. He cries about his feet and grips onto the wall trying to find stability that isn’t possible. Into his view, David glides in and grabs his arm, "We got this," he says to him.

Cameron knows he can always rely on David; a full-time, paid professional mentor that’s always been by his side for 5 years now. “I’m right next to you, I’ll give you a little push,” David said to the boy as they continued around the rink.  

We asked Cameron what he valued most about having David by his side. Cameron took a pause, looked down and said, “There are certain times I just want it to be David and I... I’m thankful for all the time we spend together [and] for just him being there.” The best moments for him are when there are no expectations, when they can just “be like two friends hanging out.” 

Cameron notes that in his future he will help people: in a local, direct way. That’s why he wants to become a doctor. He envisions all the conditions he could diagnose and support people through; from limb damage, to pain, and through cancer. 

Let’s make a commitment to support more youth facing multiple adverse childhood experiences from kindergarten through high school graduation to help make their dreams— like becoming a doctor—all the more possible.