Family helps battle pediatric cancer -- by running

Life is now good for Danielle Gallagher and her two daughters, 2-year-old Charlotte and 4-year-old Caroline.  Two years ago this wouldn't have been possible because Caroline had cancer.

"They diagnosed her with acute lymphoblastic leukemia," recalled Danielle Gallagher, Caroline's mother.

It’s a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

"It was horrendous, you never expect to hear that your children has cancer," Danielle continued. "You never expect that it could actually really happen to you. So it was a real difficult for our family."

The family was dealt another unexpected blow seven months later, when Caroline's cousin Julia was diagnosed with Stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma. That's when tumor cells spread throughout the body.

"They were as close as two little cousins can get. They loved to play together. They were six months apart in age," Danielle said.

Julia lost her fight last year, which motivated Danielle to take part in “Run for All Children," an event to raise money for Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. 

“To honor Julia, to celebrate Caroline, and to raise awareness for childhood cancer,” Danielle offered.

Danielle's family is so thankful for all the work the hospital did for the girls.

"They're just amazing, I mean it’s clearly a calling for them and it’s not just a job," Danielle said.

Caroline is now cancer-free. And Danielle hopes the fundraising efforts make a difference in the lives of other families.

"No parent should ever have to hear, ‘I'm sorry, there's nothing else that we can do. Go home and make memories,’" Danielle added.

The event is this weekend. If you would like more information, click here.