Zoey was only three years old when her cancer diagnosis came to light.
Prior to her illness, Zoey was a bundle of energy, always on the move and filled with the same zest for life characteristic of many children. She was raised in a nurturing environment, known for her warmth, playfulness, and happiness.
One day, while at play, Zoey stumbled and, a few weeks later, found herself unable to use her hands properly. Upon noticing these alarming signs, her family wasted no time in seeking medical attention.
Upon their arrival at the hospital, they were met with news that would haunt them forever
The doctor revealed that Zoey, their vibrant and loving little girl, was afflicted with DIPG, an exceedingly rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.
“We didn’t know what to do, where to go. We were told it’s pretty much a death sentence,” Zoey’s mother, Casey, explained.
A calamity of such magnitude, one that no one would ever wish upon their greatest adversary, descended upon the family.
Yet, the parents found the strength to stay composed and muster resilience, all for Zoey. Over the next two years, Zoey would face a series of cancer treatments.
They found a facility in Germany specializing in radiation therapy, where initially, Zoey showed signs of improvement. However, her response to the treatment began to wane.
Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and the family braced for the unimaginable. On July 4, 2018, in her home in the United States, Zoey passed away peacefully.
Aware of the heartbreaking reality that loomed, Zoey’s parents were determined to create lasting, beautiful memories with her in the time they had left. Zoey’s radiant spirit shone through until her very last moments. Her parents invited loved ones to their home to spend time with Zoey, cherishing every second before it was too late.
In a courageous move, her mother chose to share these profoundly intimate moments on Facebook. “I shared it because even though it’s a painful moment, it’s a beautiful moment in our eyes,” Casey explained.
The shared image captures a tender scene: Zoey’s parents lovingly encircling her in their arms.
They gathered on the sofa, the family dog by their side, immersed in a day filled with Disney melodies. A Harry Potter film provided a backdrop to their gathering. In a serene, peaceful moment, after half the movie, Zoey quietly drew her last breath.
“The world is going to learn about Zoey. We will keep giving back and spreading love and light to the world since she has given us so much of it,” said a teary Casey.
“I had seen a handful of families sharing moments and originally I didn’t think I was going to share it. ‘But I thought: “I want a photo like that taken”. I want those moments captured so I can remember them forever even when my brain is gone,” she added.
Through the Facebook page “Zoey’s Light,” the family is dedicated to sharing the hope and brightness Zoey brought into their lives throughout her years. They aspire for Zoey’s story to motivate others to extend help, to embrace love wholeheartedly and gratefully, every day.
The ordeal that Casey and Ben endured is something no parent should ever face. Their incredible strength and love as parents are admirable. Our prayers for you will never cease. Zoey has become an angel and will watch over us all.
May you find eternal peace, dear Zoey.