Support Adults Facing a Terminal Diagnoses

I was holding her 3 year old when she said the word cancer.

It was the first time I had watched my friend’s daughter, who was 3 years old at the time.  Her husband was in the hospital, and she lived away from family.  My friend had just left for the hospital when her husband’s doctor conference called her in.  Cancer.  It was all she heard, as the rest of the conversation was a blur.  

She called me a few minutes later to tell me the news, and we cried.  I held her daughter tight and cried some more.  I knew this little girl’s life would never be the same.  

After a courageous battle, my friend’s husband, Paul Moore, passed away leaving his wife and two little girls.

The feeling of helplessness is overwhelming and discouraging all at the same time.  I wanted to do something to lessen the pain that these friends I loved where experiencing.  I needed to act, to do something. I remember turning to the Internet to find some kind of group that might be able to help; however, few organizations support adults facing a terminal diagnoses.  It was at that time, three friends and I launched The Paul Moore Foundation.  We started the Foundation in an effort to help families focus on what matters most during their precious time together. It also allows the community an opportunity to rally together, raise money, and support young families in need.

 

On September 24, 2016, The Paul Moore Foundation will hold its annual 5K Fun Run/Walk and Carnival in West Bountiful, Utah.  The Foundation has named Kristy Carpenter as its recipient for this race.

Kristy married Brant Carpenter in 2012.  In 2013, they welcomed their first son, Cameron.  On May 30, 2016, due to complications, a C-section was necessary to deliver their second son, James, at only 33 weeks.  

During the C-section, the doctor found an 8-centimeter tumor on her ovary, which was then removed and biopsied. The results of the tumor’s biopsy showed cancer and it was soon discovered that cancer had spread to Kristy’s lungs, spine, sternum, and liver. 

 

The final pathology report determined that Kristy has a rare form of cancer called Neuroendocrine Carcinoma, and she was given a prognosis of 10-12 months to live.  

Kristy says, “To say my world was shattered is an understatement.  I had been told that I may not make it to my brand new baby’s first birthday…but we are not giving up. And, we are making the best out of what God has given to us.”

 I’ve known Kristy since we were 12 years old and have loved being in choirs and on dance teams together. She is such a brilliant, wonderful woman and a cherished mother and wife. 

We had our baby’s just two days apart from each other and I have felt such a profound sorrow for her receiving this diagnosis at such a beautiful time in her life. We are here to fight with her and for her and would love any support that you could give through The Paul Moore Foundation. 

We are all part of the community that can make a difference in Kristy’s life. Here are ways you can help.

1. Make a donation! The Foundation’s donations go directly to those in need.

 

2. Participate in the Event!  Whether you run, jog, walk, or push a stroller during the 5K, all ages are encouraged to participate.  After the 5K, the carnival activities will include face painting, balloon animals, a bounce house, food trucks and a silent auction you will not want to miss.

3. If you cannot be at the event, be a virtual runner! Register for the race and we will mail you a t-shirt.

4. Spread the Word! Follow us on Instagram and like us on Facebook.  Sharing our posts increases the opportunity for others to learn about the Foundation and to donate to Kristy and the Foundation’s cause.

5. Volunteer! Volunteers run the Foundation. There is something for everyone to do.  Perhaps you can direct traffic, hold a sign, or help establish business connections for donations; there is something for everyone’s comfort level.

6. Business Advertising!  Do you have a business?  Let’s talk!  Booth spaces are available to purchase, which is a great opportunity for you to market your business to the hundreds of people that will be there.

 

You can read more about Kristy’s story here. Thank you for your support!