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"God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble." Psalm 46:1

Many years ago, my wedding was one of the most joyous days of my life, and yet, there was also significant heartbreak with the notable absence of my older sister not standing next to me at the altar, as well as no ring bearers.  

Weeks before our wedding, my sister noticed that her two-year-old son’s left eye was starting to turn inwards. Assuming that he was developing a lazy eye, she made an appointment with a local pediatric ophthalmologist. After extensive testing, the eye doctor recommended that Gregory needed to be seen immediately by a pediatric oncologist. God swiftly opened the doors for appointments with some of the most well respected specialists in their area, and it was in their offices that my sister and brother-in-law heard the words that no parent is ever prepared to hear… “Your son has a brain tumor and needs immediate surgery.”

After numerous surgeries and treatments, Greggie fought bravely for nine months until Jesus healed him by taking him home to be with Him in heaven.

When families have to travel a cancer journey, they are in desperate need of the hope and comfort that only Jesus can provide.

This year, our 15th Annual St. Matthew Turkey Trot is designated to support “Jameson Strong”, a non-profit established by the Doud family that sends Christian care packages to families experiencing similar pediatric cancer journeys.

Last year, I learned of Jameson Doud through the Michigan Lutheran Principals Google Group. Jameson was a second grader who attended St. Michael's Lutheran School, Richville, MI. After a significant period of not feeling well, Jameson was also diagnosed with a brain tumor. Doctors treated Jameson with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, and there was a period where Jameson was cancer-free. However, in May, his family received the devastating news that the cancer had returned. Jesus took Jameson to be with Him in Heaven on August 12, 2025.  

Jameson's family has formed a non-profit in his memory called "Jameson Strong." The mission of this non-profit is to create Christian Care packages for pediatric cancer families that contain many of the gifts and items that brought Jameson's family comfort during their lengthy hospital stays. Such items include: a cross with the child's name on it that can be placed in the hospital room (Jameson's pastor brought him a similar cross with his name on it during his first hospital visit; the family continued to take it to every hospital stay there after) a Bible, a devotional book, a cross necklace like Jameson wore during his hospital stays, etc.

Since the formation of this non-profit in September, they have already sent out 42 Christian Care packages to families facing similar cancer journeys.  

Our Color Out Cancer Turkey Trot for Jameson Strong will be held on Friday, November 14th. Students are asked to collect pledges before the 14th. Forms will be distributed in class; however, you may also print one off HERE. On the morning of the Turkey Trot, students will run laps around our soccer field. Parents are also welcome to come and serve as cheerleaders.

Donors can give a one time donation or pledge per lap. All donations will be given to Jameson Strong to assist them with their very important mission of sharing Jesus with pediatric cancer families who are in desperate need of hope.

Students who raise over $50 will receive a T-shirt with the above logo. Students raising over $100 have the option to receive a sweatshirt.  

In addition, we realize that so many families are affected by cancer. As a result, we have started a Color Out Cancer prayer chain. In our church lobby, you will find a color chart of the various types of cancer. If you know of someone who is currently dealing with cancer, or who has survived cancer, or someone who you would like us to run in their memory, please write their name on a paper that reflects their color of cancer and put it in the designated box. Our Upper Grade students will make a chain of these papers, and we will pray over it at the start of our Turkey Trot.

As Christians, we treasure the fact that God’s love and faithfulness remains steadfast through both joy and heartbreak. In addition, we cling to the promise that through faith in Jesus, there will be beautiful heavenly reunions with loved ones!

God's richest blessings, and thank you for your support in this endeavor!

Mrs. Palka