Jace
This is Jace, Our Racing Hero
Our sixth Ray of Hope Portraits session starred 3-year-old Jace who was diagnosed with stage IV Nueroblastoma in February of 2023. After enduring 16 grueling months of surgery and treatments, it was an absolute joy and honor to provide Jace and his family with a morning of fun, laughter, and memory-making together.
Jace walked into the studio with all the warmth and charisma in the world. From the moment we met him, he was excited to share his love of Hot Wheels. Little did he know what was in store…
Another one of Jace’s passions is science experiments, so that’s where we started.
After changing into the cutest lab coat, along with his safety goggles, gloves, and ID badge, he marched over to his lab where we conducted three experiments.
His lovely mom, Lisa, acted as his assistant. They mixed, poured, stirred, and created magic. The reactions between baking soda and vinegar were surpassed by the reactions on their faces. It was so much fun!
Next, Jace changed into his racing outfit and brought his family over to play with his new Hot Wheels set.
He was then presented a trophy for being our #1 racer!
After celebrating with his family how much they’ve been through and how far they’ve come, we surprised Jace with his very own electric sports car, which was gifted by a very special donor. What a gift!
After he took his new wheels for a spin, Jace changed into his racing jacket and personalized Hot Wheels t-shirt, crafted by our favorite Jessica from Hood and Pine Boutique. He started by playing in a pop-up sports car, and then was told he had something special for him outside. He quickly raced around the block to find a souped-up Tesla. A special friend, Pat Murphy, provided this incredible car for Jace to experience. Hidden away in the center console were more Hot Wheels for Jace’s collection.
Jace and his sister Emma enjoyed taking in all the wonder of the Tesla before we headed back inside to finish up at our Inspirational backdrop.
This session was filled with a unique level of joy. Jace’s happiness was infectious, and the volunteers couldn’t get enough of him. After the session, Jace’s mom wrote, “Thank you so much for creating the perfect experience for Jace! The entire session was flawless, so thoughtfully put together, and incredibly special. This was the first time Jace has been anywhere besides the hospital, our home, or a park since he was diagnosed in February 2023. It was remarkable to see him instantly feel so comfortable around everyone, and truly enjoy every moment. It meant so much to us to see so much light and joy in his eyes, after so many very dark days. We are grateful to have photos that we can share with friends and family…Thank you SO much!!”
His family has been through the ringer, but they still showed up and showed all the love in the world for each other. It was just such a special time together.
Jace, we would take a ride with you any day!
Special thanks to…
As always, we’re so thankful for the hard-working and joy-filled people who work so hard behind-the-scenes. A very big thank you to Lindsi Boss, Allison Foxworthy, Kristina Gershom, Chelsea Hungate, Bryant Strot, Carol Thompson, and Trevor Winsor. We couldn’t do this without you!
