Our MISSION, what do we do as parents to mourn the loss of our son? From the time that we witnessed the first child die from cancer eight years ago, we watched in pain, as his parents and family grieved. One could only hope that they could find their way after such a devastating life event. Martha and I prayed that it would never be our turn to answer that question. Today and every day we think about Jimmy, how do we cope? Since that moment when Jimmy took his last breath, we try to comprehend what happened? Perhaps not, but make a difference…WE WILL!

     Shortly before Jimmy received his bone marrow transplant at the City of Hope he became more serious about life. Reflecting back on one particular day, to a conversation, Jimmy initiated. He was concerned that we would somehow forget him, that the living and breathing person he was, would fade from our memories. He assured us that he would always be in our hearts and wanted us to tell him that we would be ok. One small boy acting like a man…of course we told him, he would always be in our thoughts and heart. The idea of a Foundation came up quickly; the purpose reflected what we thought was most difficult for families during treatment. In addition, how could we help other parents after losing their child to this dreadful disease? Martha and I thought about what would make a lasting tribute in Jimmy’s name even after our own deaths. As we went through the legal process to set up Jimmy’s Vision Foundation we had to explain that to the Internal Revenue Service.

     First of all, we wanted to reach out to other families that have traveled the same road with their child. By sponsoring events and gatherings we will have time to bond and offer emotional support, each of us understanding what the others have been through. With each other we can help to bare the burdens together. Second, we feel it is imperative to let others know how they can help through educating the general public. This will be done through getting the word out about things, such as persons becoming blood and bone marrow donors. We feel that there needs to be more awareness about childhood cancer, thus propelling it to the forefront and hopefully eradicating this disease so “our children,’ can be just that…! Finally, we would like to create a home close to the City of Hope where families with children being treated for cancer could stay while undergoing treatment. A place where families remain united and focus on their child and family, during this critical time. In our own experience the cost to live in a hotel and eat all meals away from home was very expensive. It is more than most families can afford, thus creating a financial and emotional burden that frankly should not exist. Many families become separated during this crucial time, when what they need most is to be supportive of each other. It is our goal to build a place where eight to ten families could stay in privacy at no cost.

     Our mission will then be complete. This effort will give us reason to wake up in the morning and know that Jimmy’s death lead to something great. That will keep Jimmy close in many people’s hearts and he will never be forgotten.