Help Julia Fight Leukemia

As most of us know, a cancer diagnosis can be traumatic. When it happens to your child, it's doubly scary, and when it happens to a family that has already had more than its share of cancer, it just feels unfair and insurmountable. But luckily those of us that know the Bengtsons know just how resilient and strong they are, and how many of us are going to fight alongside with them.

While Kris is still waiting to be declared "cancer free" himself, on Tuesday, October 12, his 5 year old daughter, Julia, was diagnosed with Leukemia. Kris and Dana both work as teachers, and since Julia will need round the clock care and a parent with her at all times during this battle, they will be living on a single income for the time being. Add to that medical bills, transportation costs to and from UNC, and other unforeseen expenses, and we are asking that you donate anything you can to help them through this period in their lives.

Luckily, between medical advancements and living in the best place in the country for cutting-edge cancer treatments, the prognosis for Julia is fairly positive. But for the next two years, this family's life will be uprooted once again as Julia receives treatment and attends school at the Children's Hospital in Chapel Hill, since her immune system will be unable to tolerate attending her public school. In just three days, she has faced surgery, met her new teacher, had bone marrow harvested, and lived in a hospital away from home, yet is still the smiling and vibrant little girl we all love so much. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she battles this disease.

Anything you contribute will go directly to helping Kris and Dana support their family and pay Julia's medical bills. Thank you so much for contributing.