Rypien Foundation

Patient Spotlight

Patient Spotlight

 

Below are five portraits of six amazing young children pictured with their "Favorite Thing", and each one of these children have or are currently battling cancer. It is these children, and many more, that YOU are helping. We encourage you to read each story and find out what "Things" are helping these courageous children through some very difficult times. Special thanks to Martine Gorrill, with Studio 33 Photography, for capturing these beautiful photos and for her generosity in donating a framed portrait to each one of these childrens' families.

    

Seven year old Evan was diagnosed with high risk Leukemia on June 17, 2010. Evan and his family moved from Whitefish, Montana to an apartment in Spokane, where they will live for the next few years while Evan undergoes intensive chemo treatments. Evan's most treasured toy is his stuffed tarantula "Harry". Harry goes to all of Evan's hospital appointments, and is often used to scare the nurses.

Six year old Owen was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on July 17, 2010.  Owen is the second oldest in his family with two younger brothers, and an older sister, with whom he has a very special bond.  Owen's most treasured thing in the world is his Sock Monkey, named Bananas.  Owen received this adorable sock monkey on his 6th birthday - it was a gift from his older sister, and was meant to be there to hug Owen when his sister could not.

 

Mason was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia one month after being born.  He has lived the majority of his life within the hospital, only able to return home to Montana for a few days each month.  Mason's mother spends her time by his side, while his dad juggles work, their two other children and the lengthy distance between Montana and Spokane.  Mason is pictured here in the special Owl Hat his mom bought for him.  This little owl hat not only comforts and keeps Mason warm, but it also puts a smile on his mom's face when times aren't so easy.

Tommy is 7 years old and was diagnosed with Embryonal Sarcoma of the Liver in September of 2010.  Tommy is the second youngest of five children in his family, who all live here in Spokane. His absolute, most favorite cartoon character in the world is SpongeBob SquarePants. His entire bedroom is covered in SpongeBob. His SpongeBob pillow is the one thing that can always put a smile on his face and provide him comfort when he is not feeling well. 

Madeline and Anna are two adorable young sisters who have both battled against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Anna is now nearly 2 years post treatment, and loves to play soccer. She is currently playing on a soccer team, and enjoying being a normal, healthy child. Madeline has been fighting cancer for over a year, receiving daily oral chemo treatments at home and monthly treatments at the hospital. Maddie's stuffed animal "Puppy" is her most beloved item, and it shows by the wear and tear from many long nights, and trips to the hospital.