Dréa's Dream Blog - Dance,

There are so many children who have benefited from Dréa’s Dream pediatric dance therapy program.  I have had the honor of meeting many of them. One child in particular touched the hearts of whomever he met as he valiantly faced his struggle with neuroblastoma over several years.  He never gave up hope and inspired us all as we watched him heal – and then regress – and then begin to heal again.

We’ve become close to Luke and his family.  They’ve been there to speak on behalf of Dréa’s Dream at our largest fundraising functions. There was something irresistible about Luke that drew my sister and her daughters’ to him.  Many special visits were spent doing all sorts of fun activities that they enthusiastically planned for and looked forward to.  It brightened all of their lives.

Having been treated at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Luke was the first child  to participate in a VIP visit to Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular.  He and his twin brother, James, entered the stage door and were greeted by Santa and the General Manager, Mr. Richard Claffey.  His visit was such a success that he returned the following year as well.  Everyone at Radio City continued to ask about Luke as his visits were especially memorable. No one every forgot the time that he asked to have a private talk with Santa.  He had only one gift he wanted that year. Santa never shared the details with us, but we are pretty sure he hoped to receive – the gift of life.

Luke received that gift and went on to enjoy several more Christmases – some harder than others.  He suffered more than one child should ever have to endure.  Luke passed away on February 10, 2012. He was 12 years old.  Our hearts are filled with sorrow.