Remembering Ceci - The Sanfords' Story
Nina and Ethan Sanford have dedicated their careers to helping patients every day, providing care and compassion to cancer patients and children. However, the role of caregiver and advocate they had always played for others became deeply personal when their daughter, Ceci, was diagnosed with a very rare tumor on her spine at just over one year old. Despite efforts to pinpoint the right treatment, Ceci passed away only five weeks after the diagnosis, leaving a heartache that no parent should ever have to endure.
Ceci was a vibrant little girl, full of joy and curiosity. As the youngest of three sisters, she had a special bond with her family, often spending evenings singing with her sisters. She loved watching wild rabbits play in the backyard, and her first word was "tutu," the Mandarin word for bunny, a reflection of her gentle spirit.
In honor of Ceci, the 2025 Dallas Cattle Baron’s Ball Paddle Raise goal of $600,000 will establish Ceci’s Fund. This fund will support innovative and impactful cancer research right here in North Texas, providing critical support for new discoveries and honoring Ceci’s memory for years to come.
Ceci’s love for rabbits is a poignant reminder of the endless cycle of life and renewal. Just as rabbits symbolize vitality, rebirth, and the changing seasons, her memory embodies a hope that persists beyond grief. Though her time here was short, the impact of her spirit endures, inspiring us to fight for answers and advancements in cancer research.
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By contributing to Ceci’s Fund, you are not only helping to advance cutting-edge research in North Texas but also honoring Ceci’s legacy. Your support will help make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and families navigating devastating diagnoses. Thank you for being a part of this vital cause!
