According to 7-year-old Cub Robertson, Mr. Elephant has the power to prevent bad dreams.
That power was put to the test in 2014, when Cub was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common form of childhood cancer, and referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for treatment. Mr. Elephant, a toy that has been with Cub since the day he was born, accompanies him to every appointment.
Mr. Elephant also helps Cub’s family in their efforts to increase awareness of childhood cancer and raise funds for St. Jude. Last year, Cub’s mom, Marilyn, signed up for the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer near the family’s hometown in the Midwest and recruited friends and family to join her team. Mr. Elephant’s image was featured on the team’s T-shirt.
The Robertson family used the event to educate their friends about childhood cancer.
“They were able to come to the walk because it’s a neutral area to talk and learn about what Cub and our family are going through,” Marilyn says.
Cub’s treatment includes more than two-and-a-half years of chemotherapy. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food—because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.
“Once we arrived at St. Jude, it was like being enveloped with love and compassion,” Marilyn says. “It was a no-brainer to do the event this year. It’s now a part of life to support St. Jude and raise awareness for childhood cancer. It’s a part of who we are. Even when Cub’s all better, this experience will still be a part of us.”
The St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer takes place in 61 cities this September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Cub was unable to participate last year, but Marilyn is hopeful he will be able to join his family as they take part in the event this September.
“It’s encouraging to see so many people out there for the same cause,” she says.
Join the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer. Sign up today at stjude.org/walkrun.
From Promise, Summer 2016
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