Meet Avarie diagnosed with Acute Pre B-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia

13 year old Avarie, who also likes to go by “Stinks,” is a spirited young man with a fun personality and a big heart. Like many boys his age, Avarie enjoys basketball and football, especially the 49ers. He also enjoys spending time with his siblings and older cousin.

In March of 2018, Avarie and his family sadly learned that he had been diagnosed with Acute Pre B-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Despite this devastating news, Avarie has continued to stay optimistic and is even thinking of ways he can help other children and their families going through a similar experience. Avarie created his own t-shirt brand that he calls Worst Effective. The inspiration behind the brand name comes from his personal experience. Avarie feels he has taken a very negative situation and has turned it into something that can have a positive impact on other children and their families.

Two of our Family Navigators had the pleasure of meeting Avarie and his family while delivering our signature ‘Hope Chest’ to them at the hospital. It was immediately clear to our Family Navigators how strong and resilient Avarie and his family are. Although his circumstances are incredibly difficult, ‘Stinks’ remains positive and optimistic while keeping his humor and amazing personality.

 

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Every 3 minutes, a family’s life is turned upside down when they hear the four devastating words, “Your child has cancer.” At Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance, we believe that every child deserves a fighting chance – and you can help make that a reality. 

This month, we honor brave young warriors, remember our precious Angels, and stand with families fighting childhood cancer today. From fundraising events to volunteer opportunities, there’s a way for everyone to join this mission of hope.

Together, let’s Glow Gold and remind every family: you are not alone in this journey. This September, we shine a light of awareness, love, and unwavering support for every child and family facing childhood cancer.

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Families Light Up at the Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour!

When worlds collide… the result is pure magic! Keaton families were treated to an unforgettable experience at the Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour, and the excitement was off the charts! One parent shared, “For a moment, we weren’t thinking about treatment or next steps – we were just together, smiling, dancing, and soaking it all in. It meant the world.”

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Moment with Love for Malachi

Malachi is facing something no teenager should have to – a rare and aggressive cancer called myxoid pleomorphic liposarcoma. 
 At an age where most kids are thinking about college and their next big adventure, Malachi is thinking about treatments, hospital stays, and fighting for his future. But what’s incredible is this: Malachi is still choosing to live fully. He’s choosing joy. He’s choosing moments. 

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