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SALT LAKE CITY — When told in a phone interview she’s a "brave little girl" the day before she re- entered the hospital for radiation, high-dose chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, a Salt Lake 6-year-old responded cheerfully, “I sure am!”
At age 4, Millie Flamm began a fight against leukemia. She and her family endured two years of chemotherapy treatments amidst long-term hospital stays, and she was finally released earlier this year. Family and friends were stunned days later when doctors declared a relapse.
Now friends are hosting a benefit June 30, Millie’s 5K Princess Walk/Run, to support the Flamm family in their second run against leukemia. They issued a press release, saying that “cancer is a royal pain” and one step at a time, the community can help ease the burden.
“We couldn’t have gone through the last two and a half years without the support of so many people. This walk lets us focus on our daughter’s health and gives us a few less things to worry about,” said Millie’s father, Brady Flamm.
Although Millie will still be in the hospital on the day of the race, in honor of her love for princesses, runners are encouraged to wear royal costumes.
“Millie embodies everything that a good princess would — immense courage, a kind heart and a gracious smile,” said one of the event coordinators, Christine Bowman.
Event organizers promise surprises at every turn, including real Disney princesses, gifts, food and a photo booth. There will be a 2K walk for children. Register at milliesprincessrun.o rg. All proceeds will benefit Millie’s family and will be matched up to $10,000 by an anonymous donor.
“It just amazes me how our community has stepped up to help us when a lot of them don’t know us,” said Amanda Flamm, Millie’s mom. “Not just financially, but also the love and prayers that get us through every single day. I am utterly grateful and have no words to express how much love I feel.”
Get acquainted with Millie and the Flamm family on their blog, bradyandamanda. blogspot.com, where they share their story, “Flamm Fam: Kicking Luekemia’s Butt since 2009.”
Crystalee Beck is a writer and traveler living with her husband in Ogden. Follow @Crystaleelee on Twitter or email her at delightedtowrite@gmail.com
