PALM COAST, Fla. — Bathed in gold and glowing with hope, childhood cancer survivors—known as the Flagler Warriors—posed for selfies and embraced their families before gracefully stepping onto the red carpet and heading toward the main stage on September 21. It was all part of the 8th Annual Live Like Cameron Foundation 5K, a day not defined by disease, but by courage, community, and compassion.
Negativity wasn’t on the guest list.
Instead, the morning pulsed with gratitude, joy, and unwavering support as families celebrated the children who continue to face unimaginable battles with bravery many adults can hardly fathom.
“We are raising money for our local children here in Flagler County battling cancer,” said Melisa Fulling, the event organizer and co-founder of the Live Like Cameron Foundation alongside husband, Dan. “I love the success stories, obviously, because my son passed away, so I love to see these kids do good and beat cancer.”
She added, “It’s a tough journey, but don’t give up. Things will get better, easier, even though it seems like it never will. We have a great community that supports everyone.”
The foundation is 100% volunteer-driven, and Fulling made a heartfelt appeal for continued support, thanking donors, organizations, and volunteers who make the work possible.
A Legacy of Light
The foundation is named after Fulling’s son, Cameron, who became a symbol of hope across the nation during his own battle with cancer. With a love for fire trucks and first responders, Cameron’s spirit captivated everyone he met. He was made an honorary member of several departments and, after his passing in 2017 at age 9, was given a firefighter’s funeral with full honors.
Determined to keep Cameron’s light burning, the Fulling family created the foundation to help other families like 16-year-old Zoee Foster’s, in their time of need.
“They’ve been there for us through a lot,” said her father, Justin Foster.
“They’ve been amazing support,” added Zoee’s mother, Traci Foster. “Financially, emotionally they’ve been there to support and help us through something we never knew we would go through.”
Good Vibes and Giving Hearts
The ripple effect of Cameron’s legacy continues to grow, touching not only families but also local businesses inspired to give back.
“I’ve been supporting Live Like Cameron since 2018,” said Michael Granam, owner of Good Vibes Nutrition. “Absolutely love the people, love the organization.”
Granam’s connection is personal. “My mom passed away when I was 14 of cancer, and when I found out about the organization and I watched the video of Cameron and his life, I broke down and cried,” he said.
“This is the organization, this is the charity I want to support as part of my business and part of what I do. As business owners in Flagler County, I feel like we should not only be here to make money, but to support some charity. It doesn’t necessarily have to be Live Like Cameron—that’s mine—but every business should support some type of charity.”
Community in Every Step
The 5K itself is more than a fundraiser—it’s a family affair. With painted signs and boundless energy, Dawn and Tony De Oro cheered on their 20-year-old daughter Tori, who completed laps around the lake in Central Park earning beads and encouragement at every turn.
Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at 18, Tori found strength not only in treatment but in community.
“It means so much to us, especially Tori, on her journey,” said Dawn. “Healthy eating is a big part of it and has really taken her a long way in her recovery.”
She credits Good Vibes Nutrition and their network of support: “She has created such an immense community with Mike [Granam], everybody who is there, Mistie who does CrossFit—they’ve taken Tori under their wing. Not only does she get the nutrition she needs, she gets the exercise to help her healing. It has been amazing not only for her body, but her spirit and her health.”
Families Helping Families
The bond between families navigating childhood cancer is unbreakable. Shannon Bass Gutierrez, mother of survivor Essie, knows that firsthand.
“If it wasn’t for this organization, we wouldn’t have made it through treatment without their support,” she said. “I honestly, personally don’t know how they do it, but there’s a purpose for why they’re doing it and they’re helping so many families here in Flagler County.”
To parents just beginning the journey, her message is clear: “Don’t give up. Be an advocate for your child. No matter what the doctors say, just keep pushing through. And Melisa and Dan and Live Like Cameron are here to support in any way they possibly can.”
More Than Money
Funds raised throughout the year help provide families with Bags of Hope—personalized care packages filled with wish list items like soft bedding, pajamas, and comfort items essential during long hospital stays. The foundation also offers financial assistance, emotional support, and a network of families who’ve walked the same road.
To learn more or get involved with the Live Like Cameron Foundation, visit www.livelikecameron.org.
