09/25/2026
A few days ago, I caught a man out of the corner of my eye who looked a lot like my dad.
Logically, I knew it wasn't him.
And yet...
For one comforting second, I looked away.
As long as I didn't see that stranger, my heart could pretend it was dad.
Just for a moment, I could imagine my hero was still here, just walking by.
Then reality returned.
I suppose that's what three years of grief has been for me: Tiny moments when my heart forgets, followed by a crashing reminder that he's gone.
Watching those you love fight cancer, and then grieving after they're gone, requires a strength I never knew existed.
Not just the strength to make it through a day, but the strength to keep showing up for your family, your friends, and your community.
On days I don't feel very strong, I think of the kids and families I've met who have been impacted by childhood cancer.
I think of Aidan, Noah, Lola, Savannah, Emma, Kiki, Ellie, Elise, Jade and sweet little Wrenley. Their courage, and the strength of their families, remind me why this fight is such an urgent one.
Today marks three years since my sweet, generous and loving "daddy waddy" passed from cancer.
To honor his memory, I'll be making *another* donation to my St. Baldricks fundraiser.
If you're able, I'd be grateful if you would consider donating a dollar or two to support childhood cancer research.
For my dad and every family impacted by cancer.
https://www.stbaldricks.org/fundraisers/caleros
