We've been friends since middle school and even roommates in college. I've always adored her spirit and spunk, and I always knew she was a strong person. When her oldest boy Benjamin was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia back in 2010, her family's inner strength and determination really got to shine. Benjamin was only 2 years old when he was diagnosed. And from the start, they began to fight with the help of family (especially his little brother Brody), friends,and their medical team at Duke Children's Hospital.
Over the next three and a half years, Benjamin received medical treatments at Duke Children's Hospital. His numerous needle pokes were carefully documented by each round ball on his cancer beads. His port was a daily reminder that he had cancer and needed lots of medicine. I'm sure they spent more time there than they would have liked. In the end, they left singing the praises of the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff at Duke Children's Hospital.
Benjamin's cancer is in remission now and life has been getting back to normal for their family. They continue to have a big hand in supporting Duke Children's Hospital and cancer research. This is his second year appearing as the Duke Radiothon's poster child! He also appeared this year in a Duke Children's Hospital commercial to support the Jimmy V Foundation (linked below). So, while Ben's new normal life is just beginning, some child's cancer journey is just starting. Please join me in supporting the great work at Duke Children's Hospital. Click the thermometer badge below to read more about their story and to donate to Benjamin's fundraising page. As Family Ambassadors, they have a goal to raise $10K. Let's help them reach that goal and then some - every little bit helps!
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If you'd like to book a family photo session with me, please email me at katie@katiecartwrightphotography.com for more information.