Abbypalooza

Abby Jensen's life on earth was short, but the 5-year-old, who died of brain cancer in July, made an impression on many that will last for years to come.

Recently about 500 individuals attended Abbypalooza. The event was held at Cape County Park North to help raise funds to combat diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a rare pediatric brain tumor, and to thank the community for supporting the Jensen family following Abby's diagnosis. Food and T-shirt sales, walk sponsorships and donations helped raise $5,000 for the cause.

Abby's indelible mark on this world was evident by the variety of individuals in attendance. A nurse from the neurology unit at Children's Hospital in St. Louis, physical therapists and hospice staff members were among Abby's health care workers who participated in the walk.

A health crisis is never easy to deal with, but it's especially difficult when a child is the inflicted. Regardless of the difficult circumstances, Abby had a great attitude and joyful spirit that was a blessing to others.

Thanks to the organizers and Jensen family for holding this event, as well as the many who attended and helped raise money to combat this disease.

If you would like to donate, checks may be made out to Maegan Jensen c/o Abbypalooza and sent to P.O. Box 43, Oak Ridge, MO 63769.