Shawn courageously fought stage 4 esophageal cancer, but sadly passed away on July 30 at the age of 37. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Kelly, and a wonderful father to his two young children, Landon and Madeline. In addition to his family role, Shawn served as an 8-year veteran of the Cleveland Fire Department, truly exemplifying heroism in every aspect of his life.
Before he passed away, the CarsonStrong Foundation was able to give his family time together at a beautiful cabin. This trip allowed them to spend quality time as a family, including extended family members as well. They had a great time playing games, swimming, and enjoying nature. Shawn’s story illustrates why we work hard to provide the Gift of Time Together to so many families. We are grateful that we were able to give them this time together before he passed away.
Maddi is an outgoing, sweet, and silly 6-year-old who has been battling Stage IV Neuroblastoma for most of her life. She was initially diagnosed during the pandemic and spent most of her time at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital away from her family in Louisiana. After completing treatment, they returned home, only to find out that the cancer was not gone and that she would have to undergo more treatment. Maddi’s mom mentioned that she loved Peppa Pig and expressed a desire to go to a theme park. After conducting some research, the Gift of Time Together Team discovered Peppa Pig Land inside of Legoland in Florida. Working around Maddi’s treatment schedule, her mom packed her and her younger brother for a long drive to Florida. They spent a few days exploring the parks at Legoland, including the much-anticipated Peppa Pig Land! Additionally, they had a family photoshoot where Maddi got to wear her Kindergarten graduation cap and gown. After returning from their trip, Maddi’s mom shared, “Our much-needed mini vacay was amazing. Now we are refreshed for this next cycle of chemo.” Keep fighting, Maddi!
Sam was just 16 when he relapsed with cancer earlier this year. The news was devastating. Treatment options were limited, and time was short. When we heard Sam’s story, we knew right away his family needed the Gift of Time Together. Sam wanted to visit Panama City Beach one last time, the place where his family had made so many memories before cancer came into the picture. With help from our generous partners and donors, we were able to make that happen.
Sam, his mom, his aunt and uncle, and his grandma spent a beautiful week soaking up the Florida sunshine. Their days were filled with laughter, ocean breezes, and moments that felt suspended in time. Beach wheelchairs helped both Sam and his grandma enjoy the sand and surf, and a professional photo session captured memories they’ll hold onto forever. It was a sacred pause in the midst of the storm.
Shortly after returning home, Sam passed away.
His mom later wrote to us, “Thank you for the gift of time. He waited for the trip… and then knew it was time to leave and be with God.”
Sam’s story was the very first Gift of Time Together experience, and it became the heartbeat of what this program is all about: creating space for love, connection, and peace when families need it most. We carry Sam’s memory with us in every trip we plan, every moment we make possible, and every family we serve. His legacy reminds us that even when time is short, love stretches far beyond it.
