Skyler Lee Evans Skyler

Skyler's sister, Kellie and Skyler

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Skyler Lee Evans had a birthday on June 17, 2001. He is four years old and has been in and out of hospitals since he was ten months old. Skyler was diagnosed with a brain tumor called optic glioma. The tumor lies on the optic nerve and has caused almost total blindness in his right eye. His hearing has been affected as well. He will soon be fitted with a hearing aid in each ear. Chemotherapy was effective in shrinking the tumor, but when Skyler developed an allergic reaction to the "chemo" after nine months, the treatments had to be discontinued. Surgically removing the tumor could cause him to lose his sight completely. I first read of Skyler's story in "The Advocate" newspaper. Julie Sheurer interviewed the family and wrote a beautiful story. Julie is not only an excellent reporter, but also a compassionate young lady who genuinely cares about others. I called her and she put me in touch with Skyler's mother, Colleen. When I called Colleen, I told her about "Help From The Heart' and asked what we could do to brighten Skyler's life. Since his birthday was June 17th, what about a big birthday party and celebration for Skyler and his sister, Kellie, who would be nine years old in July? Colleen loved the idea. Skyler and Kellie put their heads together and chose to have their party at Magic Mountain at Polaris Parkway. I began working with Brian Murtha, the general manager at Magic Mountain to arrange the celebration. Brian was kind enough to give the foundation a discount of $20.00. On Saturday, June 16th, we celebrated their birthdays. They had twelve friends as guest, as well as their mother, Colleen, and their father, Lee, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and close friends. The children had a marvelous time participating in all the fun activities. We had cake, pizza, punch, and soft drinks. We bought Skyler a TV/VCR for his bedroom and "Clifford, The Bid Red Dog" movies. Kellie was surprised with the new "Game Boy Advance" with a "Mario" game and a bead-making kit. Many of my committee members came to help and join in on the fun-Susan Moore and her son, Tyler, Kristie Conley, Joe and Tracy Mayzum and son, Kevin, Sarah Wilson and Joe Arick. Sarah and Joe entertained everyone in singing our song, "Help From The Heart" and it inspired all in attendance. They are in the process of recording a CD of songs of hope and inspiration which will include our song. We can hardly wait for it to be released. All of us enjoyed being with Skyler and Kellie, and their friends and family. The day was filled with such fun, warmth, love, and happiness. It seemed impossible that we all had met for the very first time. We had a beautiful reason for coming together and celebrating another year in the life of this cute, little boy who had been through so much, but who goes about life with an energetic spirit and an attitude that he can do anything and do it well and he does! Kellie is as pretty as she is sweet. She certainly loves her brother! We were happy to be able to provide a fun day for her as well. When it was time to leave, Colleen hugged me tight and thanked all of us. Her heart was blessed for the joy we brought to her and Lee's precious children. She and her mother, Brenda Heskett, want to volunteer their time in the future to "Help From The Heart". We will be happy to have them join our mission. Please keep Colleen, Lee, Skyler, and Kellie in your prayers.