PLEASE take a moment to read my heartfelt words...

Every day the question passes through my thoughts...why my son? Why did my son die? People get sick. Children get sick. Some children die. Mine did. Far too young at 19-years-old. There is no answer to my question why...not any theology, philosophy, or wisdom will suffice for me. Time passes, and everything changes but this. I move forward and try to do what I can for other children like my son, Stephen...for other children who may die far too young to experience joy and laughter before their time here is over.

Every 3 minutes, somewhere in the world a family hears the
devastating news that their child has been diagnosed with cancer.

I was one of those families. My son Stephen was diagnosed with Leukemia at 16 years old. He fought for three years. He told me he didn't want to die. Tears and fear were always beneath the journey. I woke up every morning wishing with all my strength to switch places with my son. I would do anything to keep my Stephen alive. He was a brave warrior against a cruel enemy who defeated him in the end. Stephen faced it with grace and dignity and love in his heart. At 19 his eyes closed for the last time as I laid next to him in his bed. My heart broke. I was devastated. The pain was beyond my capacity and I quickly arrived at the realization that I would never be the same. I'd never see my son again.

After what seemed to be endless days and nights of crying and emotional despair, I gained the courage to move forward...inspired by my son Jason who needed me and had the other half of my heart. Life was worthy as his mother. His heart was broken, too -- brothers who could not have been closer. He would live his life without his brother.

Honoring the memory of my beloved son and Jason's brother Stephen is an integral part of my life's path. Both Jason and I are participating in this annual event to raise money for other children fighting cancer so they can attend a special summer camp just for them (the same one Stephen attended and loved). This has become my life-long mission. I know Stephen would be proud to be honored in this way, as his compassion for others even in his position was always present. He referred to this camp as "a slice of heaven."

Please join me and Jason as we honor Stephen's memory in 2025. Let us count on you. We need your support.
Your loyalty and love has never faded -- each of you has a place in my heart and Jason's for all time.

We're grateful to be part of Team Lifeline at the Miami Marathon.
Every dollar raised and every mile walked will place a smile on a very sick child's face. A marathon is not easy, but neither is the life of a child diagnosed with cancer.

While traversing those miles will be challenging, I am excited to help raise awareness and funds for such an important and worthy cause -- bringing joy to a child fighting cancer.

My goal is to raise $18,000. I need your help. Every donation is 100% tax deductible -- no donation is too small or too big. Every donation is met with gratitude and love.

Please join me and Jason in reaching our goal. Fill your pockets with angels! The families pay for nothing. Every dollar you donate will get another child to Camp Simcha.

Together, we can make a difference. Together we will honor Stephen's memory.

Thank you for your support and generous compassionate heart...
With love and affection,
Susan
Stephen and Jason's mother