Jeffers Story

What began with a fever just before Jeffers' sixth birthday quickly became a nightmare. He was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with acute leukemia. At first, treatments were constant and grueling. Jeffers was selected for an aggressive clinical trial -- good because he got cancer-killing drugs based on the latest research, but bad because of increased side effects. As hard as it was for all of us, treatment was necessary and successful. Now 12, Jeffers is strong, healthy, and a great athlete. Joined by most of his classmates, we've walked in Light The Night since 2004. The support of our friends was an antidote to the isolation of treatment and a big boost for Jeffers. The Walk galvanized the entire school community and helped Jeffers maintain ties with his close friends after he had to repeat first grade. All of us have remained passionate and committed to the event and what it stands for -- hope.

Sari Chang
Jeffers' mom