Lane Goodwin was born to Angie and George Goodwin in Henderson, Ky on May 2, 1999, the oldest of two boys.  Lane was an energetic, athletic, funny and compassionate child that was diagnosed with Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma two months before his 11th birthday.  He fought bravely with a smile and his little thumbs up, his way of saying “I Got This” for two years and seven months.

While bravely battling his own cancer and enduring chemo and radiation, he always thought of the other kids battling cancer.  He frequently shared gifts given to him with the other kids in the hospital and clinic.

In September 2012, a remarkable worldwide Thumbs Up movement began as a way to honor Lane, who always gave a Thumbs Up to say, “I got this”.  During Lane’s final weeks his mom asked him why he thought all of this was happening. Lane, without hesitation, replied, “Mom, this is what we always prayed for.  This will bring awareness and a cure.”  Lane proceeded to tell his mom what he wanted her to do, and out of this was born the Thumbs Up For Lane Goodwin Childhood Cancer Foundation.  Lane was present when Kentucky Secretary of State, Alison Lundergan Grimes visited their home to present them with the Foundation incorporation papers in October 2012.

On October 17, 2012, Lane passed away at the age of 13, knowing that his mission to find a cure and to help other children would continue.  Lane’s family – including his parents Angie, George and brother Landen – and supporters around the world are committed to continuing his legacy through Thumbs Up For Lane Goodwin Childhood Cancer Foundation.

I'd like to nominate Lane Goodwin's mother, who currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Thumbs Up For Lane Goodwin Childhood Cancer Foundation.  She is a strong woman carrying on the memory of her son.  http://thumbsupforlane.org