Cancer, You Can’t steal My Joy

There’s something remarkable — maybe even upside down — that Jane’s Fund witnesses every week when a child is diagnosed with cancer. Amid chaos, pain, sleepless nights, and even agony, children do not hide their joy. In fact, quite the opposite happens: they remind others how to LIVE.

Four-year-old Izial, diagnosed with a rare abdominal tumor before turning three, just showed his family and friends how to laugh, party, and celebrate during his fourth birthday. In the midst of suffering and uncertainty, he chooses joy and life. Izial reminds us not to wait for something bad to happen to start to LIVE: love, laugh, and forgive now.  

It’s no surprise that Izial’s mom, “T,” continues to choose gratitude, even when life seems impossible. Eight months ago, the family car stopped working, and “T” didn't know how she’d transport Izial back and forth to the hospital — or take her other two children where they needed to be. Jane’s Fund stepped in and purchased the family an SUV. 

Despite battling an aggressive tumor, Izial continues to find extraordinary joy in the not-so-ordinary struggle of life with terminal cancer.  

Izial, thank you for reminding us all to “KEEP OUR EYES ON THE DOUGHNUT AND NOT ON THE HOLE.” 

Jane’s Fund needs your help this holiday season, paying mortgage and car payments for kids with cancer who are choosing to LIVE IT UP despite facing their last days on earth. 

*Names and photos may be changed to protect a family's privacy.