Adam is an eight-year-old boy battling neuroblastoma who wants to grow up to be a police officer. Adam believes the meaning of hope is when one has a good feeling/wish and that happiness in life is when family gathers together.

Hope and happiness as described by Adam are reminders of this upcoming holiday. The month of November is a time of thanksgiving.  A time of thankfulness for our men and women in blue that provide safety to our community and the men and women who give their lives to protect our country. At Thanksgiving is also a time to give thanks with family and friends for the goodness in life but also a time to remember that we always have hope.

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that commonly affects children less than five years of age. In rare conditions older children may be affected, like Adam. Neuroblastoma forms in different types of nerve tissue such as the adrenal glands (part of the kidneys) but can develop in other areas where nerve cells exist, such as the abdomen, chest, spine and neck.

Compass to Care has funded over 20 trips to treatment for Adam, who travels over 50 miles one way to MD Anderson in Texas. By ensuring Adam can access treatment, our donors provide Adam with the two things he is most thankful for this Thanksgiving: hope for a healthier tomorrow and the happiness of spending time with his family while receiving treatment for cancer.

When you reflect on this upcoming holiday, let Adam be your guide. Let Adam’s words be a reminder that even during rare circumstances there is hope and happiness. At Compass to Care, we are thankful for precious time with loved ones and that we need to hold onto the hope for a better tomorrow. We hope you are too.