Lily was only 5 years old in August of 2013 when we were informed she had high risk stage 4 neuroblastoma cancer. Something no parent is ever prepared to hear, yet alone in the beginning stages of divorce. She underwent chemotherapy, tumor resection surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy along with many unplanned visits to American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, WI. She was able to attend 1st grade in 2014 while wrapping up treatment and complete her Make a Wish trip to Disney in Florida in the spring of 2015.
We had 6 short months with her after treatment when the doctors discovered the cancer had returned. No one realized how aggressive it truly was until we arrived early to the hospital after Lily finished 1st grade and we found the cancer taking over her little 7 year old body.
Lily passed away in my arms after her body gave up it’s noble fight on June 13th 2015. My little girl taught myself and so many others the precious lesson of kindness, laughter, love, and courage in all that we do. She showed a strength that one could never imagine and would have to see to believe.
Today Lily is with us all in the miles we pass, butterflies we encounter, the love and laughter we share, and the courage and hope for a better today and tomorrow!
