Today the world lost another champion!  Most luminaries take a lifetime to make their mark in the world, but young Talin Hawkins took only six years for his star to shine.  He made the world aware that cancer is non-discriminatory and that the young are just as affected as the rest of the population.  Thanks to Talin, many other children who will follow in his footsteps will find the journey just that little easier.

Talin was a loving boy, full of energy with a talent for painting that was cut too short.  As he played with his mates at Easter this year, little did he know the path life had chosen for him?  A brave young man beyond his years he faced the inevitability of his fate with great courage, acceptance, love and inspiration.

People around the world heard of his journey and were moved to both write messages of support and to donate to all children in his name.  Such was his far reaching effect on people.

Our heartfelt thoughts go out to his family and all those who loved him.  Talin will leave behind much sadness and grief, but he gave us a whole lot more during his short time with us. Who amongst us, who knew of him didn’t suddenly listen more intently to what our children were saying; hold them more often and a little tighter?  Who of us didn’t stop to think how fortunate we were and to pause our busy lives to value what we have. 

We will take our lives and loved ones a little less for granted and spend more of our time in the present, for Talin has taught us that life can be short. We will seek the opportunities to help more children like Talin. All of this, and more, is Talin’s legacy.

Yes, Talin Hawkins may be gone, but his legacy will remain and his name will survive us all.   

The Lynne King Cancer Care Foundation