Smiles

Even while dying of pediatric cancer, somehow it’s the child who directs the path forward — who smiles at the end of the fight and teaches the rest of the family how to keep going.  

Jane refused wheelchairs and insisted the “best plan” was to die at the hospital — so her siblings and neighborhood kids could eat popsicles and play games in the house with less fear and sadness. Despite hard falls and long nights spent on the bathroom floor, Jane's laughter filled the room, radiating strength and peace for those around to absorb.  

Since Jane’s diagnosis with DIPG, brain cancer, the Harrell family has leaned on a village: relatives, coworkers, neighbors, strangers, ministers, teachers, coaches — the list is endless. Jane’s death will never be “okay” on this side of Heaven. But the people who showed up to put food on the table, pay bills, help with Jane’s siblings, and fold laundry are the reason we still stand, (and hang on by our pinky nails on good days). 

We can’t imagine another family losing a child and their home, car, or marriage simply because nobody offered to help . Jane’s Fund was created to bring smiles — because kids who are dying aren’t worried about themselves; they’re worried about the people they love. And they smile when they know Mom, Dad, and their families will be okay. 

 

Gaby, Age 17, Rhabdomyosarcoma 

Unable to speak near the end, Gaby smiled when her sister told her Jane’s Fund had paid off their family’s mortgage—$199,920. Like Jane, Gaby chose to die away from home, not wanting to overshadow the recent memory of the six of them celebrating Christmas in their house. 

Kaiden, Age 10, Medulloblastoma

Kaiden’s small, frail body lit up when he and his mom arrived at Williams Subaru. Jane’s Fund had bought them a reliable car with a trunk big enough for his wheelchair—$22,000. The smile on his face was pure joy—he knew he wouldn’t miss treatments anymore, and his sister could get to work. 

Maxx, Age 13, Ewing's Sarcoma

From his hospital bed, Maxx beamed as his mom shouted, “No f’ing way!” and his dad burst out laughing when social worker Emily shared that Jane’s Fund had just paid off their home—$85,000—days before Maxx returned home to take his final breath. 

Brooklyn, Age 14, Rhabdomyosarcoma

With joy in her eyes, Brooklyn learned just days before passing that Jane’s Fund had bought her family a car from Williams GMC—$24,000. Her first words (with a smile), “Now my sister can finally drive.” She died knowing her family was okay. 

 

84 families, each choosing the “best way” to fight the biggest battle of their lives, and all reminding us of the power of a smile. We're just getting started at Jane's Fund and need your help making more smiles.