For only a moment, let's imagine a world without pediatric cancer.
Now, let's think about the life of Riley Philpot, fast forwarded 16 years to June 15, 2016.
What would she be doing? Would she be getting her license and driving around her brother and sisters? Would she invite her beloved soccer team to celebrate her birthday? Would she be dressed in something pink, her favorite color?
Rewind. I take a deep breath and think about reality—the sad reality that Riley won't be here to celebrate her 16th birthday. Her parents should be able to warn social media: "Stay off the roads! There's a new driver around town!" and her loved ones and siblings should be celebrating their sweet friend as she passes a milestone event, the treasured "sweet 16."
It's a bittersweet 16 really, because on one hand, Riley created a legacy. Though she passed away from cancer, she left behind an army of people that would carry on her giving spirit and serve other kids with cancer. On the other hand, Riley won't be here to celebrate a huge birthday, and she's one of those people that are beyond worth celebrating.
I never met Riley, but something tells me she is one of a kind. I could listen to stories about her all day. It's funny, really, how a girl I had never met could influence my entire life, from my actions to my morals. Because of Riley, I treat people better and always reach out when I can. Because of Riley, I'm able to continue my passion for helping kids with cancer, something I would've otherwise never done. Because of Riley, I see the color pink completely differently. Because of Riley, I've met the most amazing people, ones I cherish like family and will always hold close to my heart. Because of Riley, I learned to love the "present tense," always loving people right in the moment and carrying on the legacy of both her and kids that have passed away, referring to them as an is, not a was.
You see, Riley is loving, sweet, kind, caring, faithful, spunky, precious, and all things beautiful. Her spirit is still very earthly, and I feel it through her army and the influence it has left on me daily.
If you know me, you know birthdays are very special to me, because it's an entire day dedicated to celebrating someone just for their presence. Riley is no exception. Riley isn't here to celebrate, but she is still very much worth being celebrated. For her birthday, I'd encourage everyone reading this to give to others something she always gave: a smile or something kind. Try to go the entire day without complaining and love life just as much as Riley did. Give out pink balloons and kick a soccer ball around, because Riley would have loved that. Pray for someone who needs it, and pray for someone just because. Riley would've loved that, too.
Happy birthday, Riley; I wish you were here to celebrate. I will dedicate my life to serving kids with cancer in your honor, always with good intentions, humility, and an open heart and mind. I will always see pink and think of you and will always kick the soccer ball when I have the chance to. I wilI always love people present tense and carry on the legacy of kids who are still incredible and worth being remembered. I will change the world for you, Riley, just like you changed mine.
