If that was not enough, the organization's donations to the family remained anonymous. After hearing him share this bit of information with a big grin, it was hard for me to fight back tears. He said he wanted the families to know that they were not alone in their courageous fight against cancer, and that many people out there want them to feel inspired by the power of love. Doesn’t every person fighting cancer need an Ironman fighting their battle for them?
Chuck’s advocacy does not stop at triathlon meets or music and art events. He wrote a book titled Adventures Inside a Bright Eyed Sky. ALL money from the book sales goes to families in need. Every cent. Chuck gave me an autographed copy that I rushed home to read right away. I read a story about a boy named Jay who was about to turn 13 and going through the challenges of life at that young age. Chuck uses the humor of middle-school minds to address grownup problems. The book is appropriate for all ages. As I read it, I found myself imagining Chuck as the young Jay.
Since receiving my copy, I have given the book to three families who have young children battling cancer. Their responses have all been the same: “Thank you for the book, I would love to meet the author someday.” With quiet giggles, I said to myself, “You will, you will,” as I took the families' names to pass on to Chuck.
To learn more about Chuck Beard's foundation go to its website.
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