Four Diamonds, Four Families: A Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Reflection

By Ryan Murphy and Jack Pronobis 

As Childhood Cancer Awareness Month comes to an end, we would like to honor all Four Diamonds children and families for their Courage, Wisdom, Honesty, and Strength that they have exemplified throughout their stories. We can learn so much from our Four Diamonds children and families, and we truly are inspired by the journeys they have gone on and battles they have won. 

This month we looked to Emmett for his unwavering courage he showed in and out of treatment. Emmett and his family were able to show courage through joining a clinical trial and enduring different hospital visits, but also by making an impact on others in need by creating bonds with families facing similar battles and donating to organizations in pursuit of a cure. Emmett’s family has shown that courage is contagious, and we are able to pass that courage onto others in need. 

Justin showed us his wisdom through his lifelong commitment to lifting others up, even after his long journey with cancer. After being diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia at just five years old, Justin went through two bone marrow transplants and a relapse before he became 30 years cancer-free! Instead of closing this chapter, he became a huge support system for many! Justin has served as “Team Dad” for Penn State’s Club Cross Country team and was a counselor for kids at Camp Can Do, where he helped children navigate some of the same challenges he went through. Justin taught us that we can find wisdom by giving back and reminding others they never have to go through challenges alone. 

We saw Miranda’s honesty and fearlessness while she faced her diagnosis and treatment. Whether it was her accepting that she had to lose her hair without hesitation or her readiness to fight despite being told she had a 1% chance of survival, Miranda stayed true to herself through every single hardship she faced.  Miranda taught us that honesty isn’t just about facing difficulties. It’s about continuing to shine your light and doing so with heart and bravery. 

Ella showed us her strength in every aspect of her life, whether on the wrestling mat and gymnastics floor or during MRI scans. During each step in her journey, Ella has conquered the fear of uncertainty. Whether it’s going for surgery or to oncology appointments, Ella and her family face the unknown head on, with strength. Ella taught us how strength isn’t just about getting through hard moments, but about getting back up each time you are knocked down and doing it with passion and love. 

We can all emulate the Courage, Wisdom, Honesty, and Strength that Four Diamonds children have shown. Give others courage when they need it most, use your experiences to help those around you, stay unwaveringly true to yourself, and never back down from a challenge.  

By educating yourself, donating, or volunteering, you too can make the difference in the life of a child as we grow to spread awareness and provide financial and emotional support all in pursuit of a cure For The Kids®. 

To read the stories of more Four Diamonds families, click here.