Some stories remind us just how strong a family can be. For Finnley and her beautiful family, their road was filled with unanswered questions, hospital stays, and moments of pure courage.
What began as mysterious pain evolved into a battle with childhood cancer, and ultimately, a story of resilience, community, and hope.
In late November 2023, everything changed for Finnley. What began as painful nighttime calf cramps quickly escalated into limping, sleepless nights, and a constant search for answers. Despite multiple doctor visits, normal X-rays and ultrasounds, and even a Christmas Eve hospitalization, no one could explain what was happening.
By January 2024, her symptoms had worsened. Finnley experienced weight loss, changes to her gait, and a bump on her back. Finally, an MRI at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta revealed a malignant, grapefruit-sized tumor. A biopsy followed which confirmed the diagnosis – Ewing Sarcoma of the Sacrum.
There was no time to process. Finnley started chemotherapy the same day as her diagnosis and was hospitalized for 10 days and treatment became her new routine. By June, she began six weeks of proton therapy at Emory, sometimes both chemo and proton therapy on the same day.
In summer 2024, Finnley rang the bell for proton therapy, and on December 23rd (exactly 364 days since her first hospitalization), she received all-clear scans!
To manage the overwhelming medical bills, her family made the heartbreaking choice to sell their boat, truck and fishing equipment. Before Finnley’s diagnosis, they cherished their time together on Lake Lanier, enjoying life’s simple joys like fishing, boating, and hiking. Now, with Finnley’s all-clear scans, the family is filled with hope and excitement, looking forward to getting back to the outdoor adventures they love.
When Nathan and Rebeka Self, the kind-hearted owners of Timberline Glamping Co., learned about Finnley’s journey, they knew they wanted to help in a meaningful way. And so, they did something extraordinary.
They surprised Finnley’s family with a Timberline Glamping Weekend Getaway EVERY SINGLE MONTH for an entire year!
With 22 stunning locations to choose with lakeside sunsets to breathtaking mountain views across Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Virginia, these trips are designed for what this family deserves – time to unplug, recharge, and reconnect.
Timberline Glamping Co. was built so families can enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. Their stays include beautifully furnished Safari or Bell-style tents complete with cozy beds, electricity, heating and air conditioning, a mini-fridge, and even a Keurig for those early morning coffees! Their furry family members are welcome too, because every Timberline location is pet-friendly.
That’s not all! Zaxbys wanted to make sure their family can enjoy these trips stress-free, so they provided $1,500 to help cover travel expenses, and of course, road trip snacks! Now that’s what we call Zax of Kindness!
It’s time for Finnley’s family to breathe, explore, and make new memories together!
