Madelynn is a sweet, friendly five-year-old who loves arts and crafts, Legos, and playing outside. But in summer 2019, Madelynn’s parents, Bridgette and Alex, noticed a worrying change. Madelynn no longer had the energy to do her favorite activities, and her parents had to carry her everywhere—she wouldn’t even walk into a store with her mom to pick out a toy. After numerous visits to the doctor,… Read more »
In December 2019, just before the holidays, Wesley was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a type of blood cancer. Since then, Wesley has endured chemo, spinal taps, and skin and blood biopsies. He had a bone marrow transplant on his 15th birthday. But he has faced every challenge with strength, courage—and a few good-natured pranks to lighten the mood. For Wesley, those Joyful moments gave him the strength… Read more »
Rising from the Ashes The phoenix is a mythological bird that rises from the ashes, symbolizing the ability to overcome darkness and rise to any challenge. It’s a fitting name for our January Hero, 12-year-old Phoenix, who has risen above his circumstances with incredible strength and courage. From a young age, Phoenix was always active.… Read more »
CCA’s December Hero, Zi Long, is only seven years old, but has already faced a long and challenging journey. Diagnosed with Beta Thalassemia as a baby in China, Zi Long requires regular transfusions since the blood disorder leaves him with low levels of oxygen throughout his body. But you’d almost not even know this cheerful… Read more »
September CCA Hero Maria loves running, playing, and soaking up the sun. But she does a lot more staying inside now, since her Leukemia diagnosis.
At just 19 years old, August CCA Hero David has faced cancer with more composure and positivity than most. It’s the part of his personality which inspires his family and has kept them laughing through the tough times.
