The Bigelow family knows the importance of Gap's Give & Get program benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society because, 4 years ago, their son Lance, was diagnosed with leukemia. Lance, pictured here in a shirt he got from Gap during the spring campaign, is living proof. By participating in the spring campaign, the Bigelows took advantage of a 30% discount (available at all Gap, Inc. stores) and ensured 5% of the proceeds would support LLS' fight against blood cancers, the leading cancer diagnosis among children.
We wanted to find our more about Lance and his story after his mother sent in his pictures - including whether they were going to participate in the summer campaign (running July 30th-August 2nd, click here to download the coupon and find out more). Here's more from that conversation:
When was Lance diagnosed with leukemia and how is he doing now?
I will never forget the day Lance was diagnosed. He was 29 mos old and had been running a fever for three weeks. Make the long story short, on Monday, October 3, 2005 he was diagnosed and by Friday, October, 7, 2009...he began chemo. After the first round, Lance responded well. He remained in the hospital until May 2006. He was able to return home for 2-3 days but for the main part he was hospitalized. He was diagnosed with AML and it had spread to is central nervous system. Lance has been in remission since Nov. 2005 (and counting). My little prince will be entering first grade this fall and is tackling reading with gusto!!!
Battling cancer is as a child is particularly challenging. Were you able to take advantage of any of our resources - print materials, the call center, local support groups?
The print material from LLS was more than helpful. We also received gift cards to CVS and Giant Foods. I was able to speak to someone when ever I had a question and I never heard, "may I take a message"
What's your advice to other families battling cancer?
My advice would be: first prayer and faith (regardless of denomination) and educate yourself. Read as much as you can, it helps facilitate great 
communication between you and the team of doctors. I am in the medical profession and I understood the terminology, but for me husband, he was able to keep up by reading about AML and treatment options. Also, I believe that we did not become overhelmed because we were informed and we were ableto focus on providing Lance a "normal lifestyle" as possible. Children can sense anxiety and we did not emit any anxiety or fear.
You may not know this, but Gap's spring campaign raised $600,000 for LLS, thanks to families like yours. Are you considering participating in the summer campaign?
Gap is our store of choice...their look is classic and timeless. They are comfortable and wash well. Both of my children are mainly in Gap (anything outside of gap is usualy a gift or purchased with a gift card) Iplan on participating on the summer campaign!!!! and getting friends and family involved.
