In June 2012, my cousin Chance was diagnosed with a nongerminomatous germ cell tumor, a form of brain cancer. He was twelve years old. For the next fifteen months, Chance fought a brave battle against this vicious disease, undergoing two brain surgeries, a stem cell transplant, and countless chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Through it all, Chance’s warm-hearted spirit and love of life never wavered. Not even once. During those challenging fifteen months, Chance brought joy and inspiration to countless family, friends and caregivers. After twice beating back the cancer cells, Chance relapsed in September 2013. On October 14, 2013, at just thirteen years of age, the battle ended, and Chance found peace beyond this world.
Chance’s enduring spirit now lives on through the Chance for Hope Foundation. Through the Foundation’s many good works, Chance continues to touch the lives of others. The Chance for Hope Foundation is his legacy.