Keaton Kiddos – Katie

Keaton Kiddoe KatieKatie age 16 Diagnosis:

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia– Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the body’s white blood cells (WBCs). Normally, WBCs help fight infection and protect the body against disease. But in leukemia, WBCs turn cancerous and multiply when they shouldn’t, resulting in too many abnormal WBCs, which then interfere with organ function.

Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia– CML is caused by a chromosomal problem. The 23 pairs of chromosomes in the body each contain segments of DNA called genes. Genes are essentially the body’s blueprints.

CML occurs when a piece of chromosome 22 breaks off and switches places with a piece of chromosome 9. (This piece, containing parts of both chromosome 9 and chromosome 22, is known as the Philadelphia chromosome.) The combination results in the cancer gene known as BCR-ABL. This is the gene that instructs the body to make too many mature WBCs

A Growing Community

What started as a simple idea, to create a space for connection, has turned into something truly special. Seeing families show up, open up, and support one another each time reminds me why this gathering matters so much.

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Creating Comfort in a Time of Uncertainty

As this family navigates their child’s cancer diagnosis, the challenges they face are immense. Medical appointments, treatments, and the emotional weight of it all can be overwhelming. Having something as essential as a brand-new bed allows them to focus their energy where it matters most: supporting their child and caring for one another.

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A Mother’s Perspective

“The bell was loud, clear, and powerful – but the journey to earn those three rings was even louder. Hearing it echo through the halls was overwhelming… tears, relief, gratitude, and the deep ache of everything it took to reach this moment. We weren’t just hearing a bell – we were feeling every second, every battle, every ounce of courage it represented.

He didn’t just ring the bell. He rang in victory.”

~ Sarah, Mother of Charlie, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia B-Cell Warrior

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