When FS4K was announced during the summer of 2010 one of the first people to respond was Chris, an avid sports fan and owner of Mother Goose Learning Center, a daycare and learning program in New Jersey. He and his wife Rhonda opened their first daycare several years ago and their success is largely due to the personal connection they develop with the families with whom they work with. When I asked Chris why he was so interested in participating with FS4K he told me the following story.
Victoria came to Mother Goose as an infant. She was the happiest and most independent child you could have ever met. When Victoria was around 2 years of age Rhonda noticed that she didn’t seem the same. She just wasn’t herself. Her attitude and appearance didn’t seem right.
After several unsuccessful trips to the pediatricians office, and after being diagnosed with the flu, Victoria’s parents took her to The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). She was admitted and was subsequently was diagnosed with Leukemia.
Victoria went through many painful chemotherapy and radiation treatments and after some time seemed to be on her way to recovery. She even participated in a Light the Night walk in New Jersey, and was thought to be a survivor. Unfortunately the Leukemia came back and Victoria was re-admitted to Childrens hospital.
Victoria passed away on December 8, 2008 at the age of 4 years old. Victoria really enjoyed the Light the Night walk.
Since that time Chris and Rhonda have always supported the Light the Night program. Their time with Victoria has left them with a heart full of cherished memories and her story is why Chris nominated this organization this year.
He went on to win his league which will result in a $200 donation to the Light the Night Foundation.
A special thanks to Chris and Rhonda for sharing their story and for being a part of the FS4K family.
Light the Night is part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society – please click here for more information.
