Without a doubt, most everyone in Paris, Texas, has been following the story of The Golden Girls, 4-year-old Sierra Faulkner, and 3-year-old Madilyn Hallford, as they raise awareness for childhood cancer.
While Sierra has been cancer free for over 15-months, yesterday afternoon, Madilyn got to ring the bell in Plano; signifying the end of her cancer treatment.
When asked how it felt to see her daughter ring the bell, Taryn found finding the right words difficult and emotional.
“I am so grateful to God and proud of my little fighter, this is a huge milestone but I also know this fight is not over.”
For patients with cancer and their healthcare team, the “ringing of the bell” is a significant moment–a point in time that signals the end of active treatment and the beginning of a life free of cancer.
“It is also a strange feeling because I feel like we have left other kids behind,” said Taryn. ” Kids that cheered us on yesterday while Madi walked the hallway to the bell. I just wish every kid would reach that bell.”
Madi and Sierra met in 2016 while being treated at Children’s Hospital Pauline Allen Gill Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders in Dallas, however, little did they know they only lived 10 minutes from each other.
Since then, the girls have formed a bond that is unbreakable and this morning Sierra got the news her best friend was cancer free.
“Madi…I love you and you are my best friend. Now we can play ALL the time,” said Sierra.
After a long week in Plano waiting to find out the news, Madi and her family are taking it easy but plan on celebrating soon.
“We will be celebrating with family and friends once Madi feels up to it,” said Madi’s mother Taryn Hallford.
ISAIAH 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
