From TED Talk to Bella’s Ball: A Journey of Hope and Resilience
Remember Raymond Rodriguez-Torres’s story from that TEDx Talk (Day 18/365)? Well, it doesn’t end there. The Live Like Bella Foundation, born from tragedy, has become a beacon of hope in the fight against childhood cancer.
Sara and I attended Bella’s Ball this weekend, following the foundation’s annual research symposium on Friday at Trump National Doral. The energy was electric – a mix of determination and optimism filled the room. Families, cancer fighters, survivors, doctors, and researchers all united under one mission: to ensure no child dies of cancer.
Since that first encounter with Raymond, I’ve been constantly amazed by the power of their mission and resilience. In just 11 years, they’ve raised an astounding $37 million. But it’s not just about the money. They’ve touched countless lives, helping families with everything from rent to groceries, not just in the US, but across 37 countries.
The research they’re supporting? Mind-blowing. Dr. Azzam’s work made the cover of Nature magazine – that’s a big deal in the scientific world. And then there’s Dr. Mitchell’s innovative immunotherapy treatments for brain tumors. These aren’t just incremental steps; they’re giant leaps towards a cure.
But here’s what really got me excited: imagine using AI to craft a personalized treatment plan, combining over-the-counter medications to target cancer cells with 83% efficacy. This isn’t science fiction – it’s happening now, and it’s life-changing, with the power of AI.
Every day, 43 children in the US are diagnosed with cancer. It’s a devastating blow to any family. But the Live Like Bella Foundation is changing the game. They’re not just fighting cancer; they’re rewriting the future.
From funding 66 pediatric cancer research trials to providing emotional support for grieving families, they’re tackling this monster from every angle. They’ve even released a documentary about Bella’s life on Amazon Prime Video, spreading awareness far and wide.
As I watched Camilla Barbaresco, a 7-year-old neuroblastoma fighter, receive the Live Like Bella Award, I couldn’t help but feel hopeful. This is more than a foundation; it’s a movement.
I left Bella’s Ball with a renewed sense of purpose. Under Raymond and Nicole de Lara Puente’s leadership, and the amazing LLB team, like Mayte Vizcaino, I truly believe childhood cancer could become a thing of the past. It won’t be easy, but with each passing day, each dollar raised, and each breakthrough discovered, we’re getting closer.
Bella’s loss was a tragedy, but her legacy? It’s nothing short of miraculous. And I can’t wait to see what they achieve next.
Raymond’s talk can be found in the comments.
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