The Visionaries of the Year campaign brings together community leaders, advocates, and supporters who are committed to advancing the fight against blood cancers. As a 2025 candidate, Krista launched a fundraising campaign inspired by her son, Cole, whose life was tragically cut short just six weeks after his cancer diagnosis in January 2023. Through sharing Cole’s story and educating others about the urgent need for pediatric cancer research, Krista rallied friends, family, businesses, and community members around a common goal: helping create a future where no family faces the devastation of a cancer diagnosis alone.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters, Krista’s campaign raised more than $10,000 to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission of funding groundbreaking research, advancing treatments, and improving quality of life for patients and families affected by blood cancers. These efforts extend beyond blood cancers alone, as many therapies initially developed for leukemia and lymphoma patients have gone on to benefit patients facing other forms of cancer as well.
Receiving the Patient Advocacy Award is a testament not only to Krista’s dedication but also to the power of turning grief into purpose. Since losing Cole, she has remained steadfast in her commitment to supporting families navigating childhood cancer, raising awareness, and advocating for increased investment in pediatric cancer research.
“This recognition belongs to every person who donated, shared our mission, and believed that we can do more for children and families facing cancer,” said Krista. “Cole’s story continues to inspire meaningful action, and I am incredibly grateful for the support that made this campaign successful.”
The Strong and Brave Foundation remains committed to carrying forward that mission—providing support to families, honoring the memories of children like Cole, and advocating for a future where better treatments, earlier diagnoses, and ultimately cures are available for every child diagnosed with cancer.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the campaign, supported the cause, and helped make this recognition possible. Together, we are creating hope, driving change, and ensuring that no family fights alone.
