In April, our community learned about the Sullivan family who had just been hit with devastating news about their youngest son, Keane, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a very rare form of childhood cancer. The Sullivans have lived in San Elijo Hills for 10 years. They also have 10-year old twins who attend school at San Elijo Elementary.
When neighbors and friends learned about the diagnosis, the community quickly rallied to raise funds for their family and set up meal trains during what was a very difficult time. The response was greatly appreciated by the Sullivan family.
Of course, that was just the beginning. It has been a very challenging year for their family both emotionally and financially. Due to Keane’s required treatments, Dawn is no longer able to work full-time and John has to take time off of work to drive them up to LA for Keane’s treatments.
Keane has been doing well since his surgery. He is a trooper and truly amazes his parents each day, but there are still 6-7 months of treatments ahead and as you can imagine suddenly relying on one income and everything involved in this process is beyond challenging. The Sullivan family is trying to find their ‘new normal’ for now, but they still absolutely need a tremendous amount of support in a variety of ways.
One way you can show your support is to join them this month at the 8th Annual Mitchell Thorp Foundation’s 5K Walk/Run at Poinsettia Park in Carlsbad on February 4.
This year’s theme is centered around Warrior Children, such as Keane, that MTF assists. Started eight years ago by Brad and Beth Thorp, MTF supports families whose children suffer from life threatening illnesses by providing financial, emotional and resources to their desperate situation.
“The support we have received from the Mitchell Thorp Foundation has been nothing short of a godsend,” commented Dawn Sullivan. “They have made such a difference to our situation – financially, emotionally, as well as just the referrals and information they have provided. I do not know where we would be without them.”
“Bring Out The Warrior Within to Help a Warrior Child” will set the stage for the 5K, with teams raising money for these children and families. Keane’s team, “Keane’s Crusaders”, led by Captain, Samantha Canedy, will be out in full force to do everything they can to help Keane in his fight. The Sullivan family is one of many being supported by this event, which is this organization’s largest fundraiser of the year.
Please consider making a donation, joining the team or just showing up to participate in the 5K. It’s a powerful way to lift the spirits of this family while also providing support.
Information, online registration, as well as the opportunity to join a team, such as Keane’s Crusaders, can be found online at mitchellthorp.org.
You can also continue to donate directly to the family on their Crowdrise page at www.crowdrise.com/prayers-for-keane–