Kylie’s Family

Thank you for visiting Smiley for Kylie. I hope you’ve gotten a flavor of who we are and what our mission has become. Until cancer entered our home we were a fairly average Southern family – making ends meet and doing our best to raise our children to become God-fearing, productive citizens. Our hopes and dreams were probably no different than many of yours.

Cancer has a way of destroying hope and killing dreams.

Kylie’s cancer diagnosis, treatment and death have forever changed the trajectory of our lives. We have learned the power of the moment. Our little girl taught us that every moment is a precious gift meant to be devoted to others and given away using love and encouragement as currency.

We have also learned that there is a larger plan at work to which we are all subject. This plan is God’s will and unfortunately he doesn’t lay it across a table like an architect for us to alter however it best suits us. I wish he would because I would certainly erase the lines that drew Kylie’s demise. One of the hardest things I continue to face is having faith in a God whose plans I do not like. I struggle with that fact every morning as I feel the weight of her absence. Although it is difficult at times, I do believe and because of that, there are things I must do.

That is what Smiley for Kylie is all about.

Our goals are threefold:

1. Encourage others to choose joy when faced with life’s struggles.
2. Share the gospel to the hurting with realness and authenticity.
3. Find a cure for childhood cancer.

As a father, I have always tried to maintain control, plan for contingencies, and lead my family in the best possible direction. I admit that I don’t know where this is headed. I am no longer in control. But along with the uncertainty that came when I gave up the reigns. I have found a strange peace that quiets my anxious soul. It is an odd paradox.

Of course I would give it back for another day with Kylie. But I can’t do that. I can only love fiercely as long as I have left until that day when I see her again. If our story has resonated with you or I can help you in any way, please contact me. It would be my pleasure to tell you about my little girl who smiled in the face of tragedy and taught me to steal joy from pain in the hopes that maybe it could help you in your journey.

Thank you and God Bless.

Mark