Our Story
On May 12, 2025, Lenie's Dad , Phillip, went to the ER for abdominal pain. A CT scan revealed a colorectal mass and legions throughout his liver. He has ultimately been diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer with metastasis to his liver and peritoneum. Doctors are unable to surgically operate at this point in time. ​
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Since his diagnosis, we have been on the highs and lows of a cancer journey. We are soaking up the moments as a family and always striving to make memories. We know cancer research is on the catalyst of great breakthroughs, and any funds contributed will support research so we have more time as a family.
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Please feel free to follow along with our journey here: Tumor Humor with Phil.
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Why Cancer Research Matters More than Ever
Recent budget cuts to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have created critical gaps in cancer research funding at a time when scientific momentum is crucial. The NIH has long been the backbone of groundbreaking cancer discoveries, from immunotherapy breakthroughs to targeted treatments that have extended and saved countless lives. When federal funding decreases, promising research stalls, clinical trials slow, and the talented scientists working toward cures face uncertain futures.
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Cancer doesn't wait for budget cycles. Stage IV diagnoses don't pause while funding gets sorted out. Every day that research is delayed is another day families, like ours, wait for better treatments, improved outcomes, and hope. Private contributions and grassroots efforts have never been more essential. When government support falters, community-driven initiatives become the lifeline that keeps critical research moving forward. Supporting cancer research today means investing in the treatments of tomorrow, treatments that could mean more time, better quality of life, and ultimately, survival for people facing diagnoses like stage IV colon cancer. We can't afford to let progress stop now.
The Mission
For the past year, Lenie has been learning what it means to love someone through the hardest of times. She's watched her Dad fight cancer and has stepped forward as a helper. She carries soup upstairs on chemo days, takes on chores without being asked, and asks brave questions about cancer and treatment.
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Through Lenie's Palette, her paintbrush has become a way to channel hope and help her Dad fight.
In time, we hope other children will find that same outlet. A place where art becomes a way to support research, build community, and feel a little less alone on one of life's hardest journeys.
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