Averie's Army

Skinned knees, bruises, hurt feelings, possibly a broken bone at some point...these are the types of boo boos we expect to doctor as parents.  We are prepared for it, we can handle it, we can almost see it coming.

Nothing on earth could prepare a parent to hear the devastating news that their two year old child has cancer.  No words could explain that feeling of fear, sadness, anger and pain that wash over a parent in that moment and in the many moments to follow.  Through the tears they clutch their baby and a swirl of questions starts forming.   What does this mean?  What can we do? When can we start?  Tell me the best case/worst case? How long will it take?  Did we catch it early?

This is what happened to our friends Mark and Stacy Lazzara when they learned the news that their sweet Averie has Leukemia.  The words hit like a knife and in an instant their lives were drastically changed as they prepared to do everything they could to help their two year old daughter fight a fight that no child should have to face.

A plan was put into place quickly and an aggressive two year treatment plan is already underway.  This family is amazing and I firmly believe they will make it through this as an even stronger family.

 One question that was never asked or even considered was...

How much will this cost? 

It doesn't cross a parent's mind because, of course, it doesn't matter.  It doesn't matter because nothing on earth could stop them from doing everything in their power to help their child. 

I don't know what it is like to hear this news about my child, but I do know the heartbreaking feeling of hearing my best friend share this news about hers.    That feeling is such an overwhelming feeling of sadness and helplessness and a desire to help in any way I can.  

I know this family is so loved and adored by so many friends and family members who are undoubtedly feeling the same way.  The stress that comes along with a diagnosis like this is huge, both emotionally and financially and it is hard for us all to ask for financial help.  With permission, I am starting this fundraiser in hopes of relieving even a fraction of that stress for our amazing friends.

The outpouring of love, support, and prayers is so touching and so appreciated by Mark and Stacy.  I am asking, if you are able, if you might be able to help support them in this way as well? 

If you could contribute any amount for this cause it would be so extremely appreciated! 

Please share this fund with your friends as well. 

God bless the sweet souls who selflessly give to those they don't even know!