The power of philanthropy. This concept can be interpreted in many ways. At Kinetic, we define it as that synergistic moment when donors, volunteers and nonprofit leaders align their efforts to have a greater community impact. The outcome is beautiful, and one that as members of Team Kinetic, we get to witness on a regular basis.

In my day-to-day, non-work life, as I have mentioned in my previous posts, my family has experienced tremendous generosity since the extreme premature birth of my now 17-year-old twins Tripp and Trinity.

Most recently, the power of philanthropy presented itself in a wave of purple and gold. Last summer, we received devastating news about my son, Tripp. His cancer – neuroblastoma – had returned for the fifth time. He had been considered No Evidence of Disease for nearly nine years and off treatment for four. He was living his best life. Working. Driving. Involved with Student Council and a member of the tennis team. This news came out of nowhere. Our world was rocked.

Having spent 10 years in treatment previously, I had some idea what was ahead. However, he didn’t remember much of what cancer life was like. Starting this journey as a teen is much different than as a toddler. Though his spirits remained positive, and he was ready to take it on.

His story ignited a movement from New York to Kansas. A friend allowed us to stay in her apartment for the six weeks we stayed in New York City to get a handle on his disease that had spread like wildfire through his body. As fond as we are of the Ronald McDonald House, this was one of the greatest gifts we could be given – our own space to process the heartache and provide him a comforting place to begin healing from the harsh treatments. Friends and strangers at home in Kansas and other states also shared their generosity with gift cards, help with house cleaning, freezer meals and so much more. I was and remain truly overwhelmed with the sincere concern and expressions of kindness we received.

Within a short time of school starting, word began to spread amongst those who know and love Tripp. His tennis coach, homebound teacher, student council and the entire high school embraced him in ways we never dreamed possible. Together, they hosted a week of childhood cancer events that culminated in a Friday night football game where the entire student section turned purple and gold – purple because is Tripp’s favorite color and gold in honor of the ribbon that represents childhood cancer. We were back in New York City for another round of treatment and watched the festivities via social media and Face Time.

In the midst of such darkness, the light, love and unity around a common cause that generated from Tripp’s Story was an exquisite display of what the power of philanthropy can do. We are forever grateful to the many individuals in our lives who have helped brighten his days this last year. Our thanks extends to Candlelighters NYC, Michael Feeney’s Best Day Ever, the Carter Tough Foundation and the Elle Foundation. Together we remain #tripptough!