“Let’s Band Together with Hope for Harlee”

Hope For Harlee Foundation

Harlee, our sweet and caring middle daughter, always put others first. For her 5th birthday, we noticed she seemed clumsy and tired, but brushed it off as normal. The next day, 5/4/19, she woke up unable to walk straight and complained of a headache. After a trip to the ER and a series of scans, we received devastating news: Harlee had a mass on her brainstem, diagnosed as DIPG, with a life expectancy of 6-9 months. We were life-flighted to Colorado for palliative radiation, and our world turned upside down.

Despite the prognosis, Harlee faced her treatment with incredible bravery. She underwent 30 rounds of radiation and had surgery to drain a problematic cyst. By August, the tumor had shrunk, and Harlee started an experimental treatment that showed promise. Unfortunately, by November, the tumor had progressed, leading us to seek further radiation in Seattle. She continued fighting with a new chemo regimen, maintaining her smile through it all.

In April 2020, after 11 months of treatment, we made the heartbreaking decision to discontinue aggressive treatments and focus on keeping her comfortable at home with hospice care. We cherished every moment with her, making memories like attending kindergarten and taking a family vacation.

On May 6th, 2020, just days after her 6th birthday, Harlee passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. While we grieve her loss daily, we find comfort in knowing she is no longer in pain and can run and play freely in Heaven.

CFRR stands firmly behind Harlee and her family, and we believe in the power of community. Cancer doesn’t just affect one person—it impacts families and the entire community. Let’s band together and fight alongside each other. Visit Harlee’s Hamburger Hut to show your support or donate any amount to our Venmo @hope4harlee. Every contribution makes a difference!