COMMENTARY DRAWING STRENGTH FROM COMMUNITY.

Byline: Chris Hoefflin

I want to say thank you, once again, to Santa Clarita.

It is Sunday evening, and as I reflect upon this past week with a very heavy heart, I remain hopeful in my outlook because of the great capacity for caring that exists in our community. The events of the past several days, like pounding thunder, have been harsh reminders that the storm has not yet lifted. In the midst of all the pain, when you're weary and doubtful and scared, it is knowing that you're not alone - that many stand beside you - that gives you hope.

It would be hard for anyone to imagine how grateful I am to this community for the warmth and strength of your shoulders against mine, and my wife Sue's, as you stand with us around the children of our community.

We've been mourning the death of sweet little 3-year-old Camryn Garcia of Saugus who died on May 10 from brain cancer, and was buried Wednesday, May 14. An innocent and loving young girl who added such joy to this world is gone.

Seven years ago on May 15, our little boy Michael lost his long battle with brain cancer. While a day doesn't pass without memories and reminders of him, the anniversary of losing him still remains a very painful time to get through.

On May 16, I visited a beautiful young girl from Stevenson Ranch just diagnosed a week ago with brain cancer and recovering from surgery in the hospital. So sweet - so beautiful - and just thrust into the battle.

And Sue and I spent the day today with nearly 20 young children diagnosed with brain cancer. Some of them on the mend and some still struggling to win their battle, but all precious young souls deserving of everything we can do to help them.

Upon returning home tonight, another heartbreaking message. Yet again, a young warrior's battle had come to an end because of brain cancer - a gentle little 5-year-old from Canyon Country. He, like all the others, was a beautiful gift in our world.

It would be bad enough if brain cancer were the only threat to our children's health and well-being. While it has become now the leading cause of cancer death in children, it ranks below the more frequently occurring leukemia in the list of many childhood cancers. We want them all to be conquered, and in a way that allows these precious children to grow strong and live healthy and happy lives.

Thank you, Santa Clarita, for embracing the spirit of what little Michael inspired in his special caring way while he was alive. I am so grateful that before he died, at 10 years old, he saw first-hand and understood what the Michael Hoefflin Foundation was doing to help other local children and families who must deal with childhood cancer.

Sue and I thank you, and all of the loving friends who help us in this important effort, for keeping the dream alive and the hope for these special children strong. Though we grow very weary and heartsick at times, it is you who make it possible to keep fighting for the growing number of children in our community who are falling victim to cancer.