This October, our supporters in Northern California will host the second annual Striking Out Childhood Cancer—an afternoon of bowling, cocktails, dinner and auctions benefiting ALSF. Inspired by the life and legacy of C.J. Banaszek, who died from chronic myelogenous leukemia when he was 13-years-old, Striking Out Childhood Cancer is an example of a unique way you can help make a difference and help raise critical research dollars.
It is also another one of ALSF’s regional events—as the movement grows from Alex’s background—it is incredible to see how our supporters are everywhere. Childhood cancer, sadly, is everywhere too. Meet some of the local hero families and as well as the Banaszek family in Northern California:
C.J. Banaszek
C.J. was 11-years-old when he had a nosebleed that wouldn't stop. His mom took him to the emergency room, where a doctor with a hunch took a blood test that revealed that C.J. had chronic myelogenous leukemia. After he was diagnosed, C.J. had a successful bone marrow transplant, but he relapsed two months later. He went on to have two more transplants and spent eight and a half months in the hospital. He finally defeated his leukemia, but passed away in July of 2014 from a fungal infection he acquired during treatment.
C.J.’s mom, Heather, hopes that leukemia treatments improve so that no child has to go through a bone marrow transplant, and, of course, that there can be a cure for cancer. She advises other parents whose children have recently received a cancer diagnosis to “stay positive and take it one day at a time. Be like Dory from Finding Nemo and ‘just keep swimming.’”
C.J. faced his illness with incredible strength, a smile on his face and a sense of humor. He fought an epic battle and continued to be concerned for the wellbeing of those around him. Heather shared more about C.J. and her family’s story here.
Jayden Zentner
When Jayden Zentner was just 4-years-old, he complained of severe back pains. His mother said that doctors initially provided no real answers, but her motherly instinct knew the pain was not typical growing pains. She pushed for an MRI and shortly after received the shocking news that Jayden had three masses. Jayden was diagnosed with high risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia with lymphomatous features. His treatment has been rigorous—3 1/2 years of chemotherapy that completed in September 2016. The treatment compromised his immune system, caused hair loss and the cancer caused two fractures in his spine.
Despite it all, Jayden enjoys being a kid and playing with his friends. He also has big dreams and one day hopes to be a scientist to help find a cure for childhood cancer so other children don’t have to go through what he has endured.
Jack Busick
6-year-old Jack Busick is a feisty, fun-loving little boy who is all heart. He was born with Down Syndrome and as a result routinely tested for several potential health issues including leukemia. A few weeks after his fourth birthday, Jack was diagnosed with ALL. His treatment was difficult as he struggled to understand why tests and procedures had to be performed. He also struggled with sensory issues that made physically forcing treatment necessary and horrifying for his family. Jack is a fighter—and since his last chemo dose on January 16, 2016, he’s been cancer-free. His mom, Angi, wants everyone to know that no family can fight alone and it took a village to truly get through Jack’s treatment and to help the entire family get through it.
Striking Out Childhood Cancer is Sunday, October 16 from 1-7 pm in Petulama, California and presented by Northwestern Mutual. Register, donate and help us Strike Out Childhood Cancer! Get more details here.
