Nine

I have told the origin story of the Pinky Swear Foundation hundreds of times during my seven-year tenure. The gravity of the story never fades. At just nine years old, Mitch gave away his life savings to other kids in the hospital. After feeling the joy of giving, Mitch made his dad pinky swear promise to keep giving after he was gone. Mitch’s story is the truest definition of hope and resilience. Yet, because I am human, I will admit that sometimes I have to detach from this story. My son will soon be the same age as Mitch when he was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer.

In fact, my son recently asked me if we could have a chess tournament for his tenth birthday. I realize not every mom gets this opportunity.

Children with cancer are often robbed of their childhood and forced to mature far faster than they should. I spent over 25 years volunteering with kids with cancer and witnessed their deeper sense of purpose, vision and place in this world. Kids with cancer are smart, and they understand what is happening. They experience their own mortality, deep pain and stress not only for themselves, but also for their families. Instead of focusing on tomorrow's soccer game or what science fair project to do, they focus on doctor’s appointments, maintaining weight, and ensuring there’s enough money to pay the bills. For parents and kids alike, it is a heart wrenching turn of events.

Mitch faced a world far more complex and uncertain than a soccer field or school hallway.  At nine years old, Mitch had the innocence of a child and the courage of a leader. He made his dad pinky swear promise to continue his legacy after he was gone.

My intention with Pinky Swear Foundation is to do the same. To keep the pinky swear promise to provide moms and dads with financial relief so they can have the emotional strength for the journey. I want them to have magical moments similar to the one Mitch and his dad had by just being together. Because we never know what tomorrow could bring.

 You can count on me to be the best leader I can be to provide financial and emotional support to families with a child battling cancer. You can also count on me to play chess with my son, to build castles out of cardboard, and to listen as he grows into his own maturity, strength and courage.

Ten. I hope my son has 100 more years. But if not, I will be there every step of the way. I will be present to walk the journey with him. And I want to offer the same opportunity to other parents.

Please join me in walking this journey in upholding your own pinky swear promise to a child in your life.

Erica Campbell