The Good Stuff
Dear Jane’s Fund and Care Team,
Today has been incredibly emotional—but in the most beautiful way. I’ve probably cried four times, all for good reasons. I feel more joy and relief than I have since Carter’s diagnosis. I truly have the best care team in the world, and the love and support I felt today reminded me just how surrounded I am. That love gave me a strength I didn’t even realize I was missing.
Knowing there’s a community out there willing to help carry some of the weight I’ve been holding on my own is the most comforting, overwhelming, and wonderful feeling. It’s given me the boost I needed to keep fighting and keep going.
— Ms. Ford (Carter’s Mom)
Watching four-year-old Carter dress up as a fairy princess, twirling around their home, Ms. Ford—Carter’s Mom—never imagined that Carter’s subtle loss of balance was caused by DIPG, an aggressive, inoperable brain tumor with no cure. Nor could she have known that, in less than two years, Carter would grow into a courageous, kid-version of Superwoman—silently yet boldly directing their lives in the most extraordinary way.
When Carter was diagnosed with terminal cancer, the clock immediately began to tick. Brain shunts, radiation treatments, IVs, and needle sticks became an instant reality. Yet Carter never complained. Instead, she decided her hospital rooms would be playrooms. Brave and determined, she leaves hospital staff in awe—a tiny hero who finds joy and laughter even amid suffering.
Traveling between Charlotte and Washington, DC for a clinical trial, Carter’s pure heart sensed the new stress and worry weighing on her mom. In her own unique way, Carter transformed ordinary moments—waiting rooms, bath time, sharing a snack—into extraordinary treasures of magical memories Mom will carry forever.
As Carter completes her final treatment option this week—two weeks of palliative radiation in hopes of slowing the tumor’s rapid growth—Jane’s Fund has once again stepped in, covering rent and paying off the family car. Following Carter’s lead, both Jane’s Fund and Mom are reminded of the simplest miracles: a warm bed, a reliable car, hugs, and watching a movie together.
These are the good things—the good stuff—we are reminded never to take for granted.
Because of supporters like you, Jane’s Fund is able to show up when families need it most. Thank you for being part of these miracles.
*Names and photos may be changed to protect a family's privacy.
