Sometimes the Timehops from Facebook are enough to make me want to break down. This past week that was definitely true. For three or four days I woke up each morning to a reminder that 3 years ago on June 6, 2013 we found out that Olivia’s cancer had returned. For those agonizing days I got reminder after reminder about our feelings of hopelessness as we were told our chances were not very good the second time around. I had to wipe away some tears and pick myself up and move on because in the midst of my sadness we were also preparing for our first annual Color Dash 5K Fun Run benefitting the Olivia Caldwell Foundation.

On Saturday, June 11th just a few days past the anniversary of her second diagnosis, we woke up bright and early and joined together with our vendors, sponsors, board and volunteers. As usual we prayed for success and for His provision. And God more than showed up…He provided above and beyond what we could have ever hoped for.

Color Dash is the smaller of our two annual fundraisers. And this was our first event so we would have been excited with any turnout. We had 12 vendors or sponsors with booths, 30 volunteers and nearly 500 registered runners! To say it was a success for our first year is a major understatement. Plus we raised at least $12,000 for pediatric cancer research! **NOTE – We are still waiting on a final tally.

And what makes all of this especially great is that we did it all in remembrance of our little girl. Olivia might have only been with us on this earth for a short 20 months, but she has done more than most do in a lifetime. Her story has changed lives and brought people to know Jesus. Her legacy has provided $115,000 to our research teams and more than 300 gift cards for food, gas and entertainment to other kids being treated at Children’s Hospital Colorado. She has inspired people to donate money, time and other resources to helping other kids in her name. And that is amazing!

Today I sit back in awe of the way the community has rallied. Three years ago when all hope seemed to be loss, God brought us through it and has now provided above and beyond our wildest dreams.

We will always miss our daughter and wish with all our might that we could do this with her alive and by our side, but I just want to take a moment and say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who has supported us from Wyoming and around the rest of the world. We love you all!

The Olivia Caldwell Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit that raises money for pediatric cancer research. You can learn more and donate by visiting www.oliviacaldwellfoundation.org.