When Faith Meets Unimaginable Loss: Chandler's Legacy

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Clint and Amber Nelson share their powerful story of faith, resilience, and finding purpose after losing their son Chandler to cancer at age 20. Their journey demonstrates how they've turned unimaginable grief into advocacy through the Elevate Foundation while preserving their marriage and supporting their surviving son Tyler.

• Chandler was diagnosed with Stage 4 alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma at 18 years old, just before his high school graduation
• COVID-19 delayed treatment, allowing the tumor to grow significantly before intervention
• The Nelsons experienced several "miracles" throughout Chandler's cancer journey, including moments of healing and special opportunities
• They describe their first year of grief as "floating in a fog" with the second year being harder as support naturally waned
• Visiting Chandler's grave daily has become an important ritual connecting them to their son
• Their work with the Elevate Foundation focuses on childhood cancer research, advocacy, and legislation
• The Riley Grief Services program provided crucial support, helping them connect with other families experiencing similar loss
• Their marriage strengthened rather than fractured, which they attribute to their foundation of faith and friendship
• They emphasize the importance of allowing grief to express itself in all forms, including anger

If you're interested in learning more about childhood cancer advocacy or supporting the Elevate Foundation, visit elevatechildhoodcancer.org.

https://harborofhopellc.org/

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