Koby Gruenwald (2004-2018), was the bravest kid I ever knew. Despite his looming glioblastoma prognosis, Koby continued to laugh, crack jokes, make genuine connections with everyone he met, and impact their lives in the most beautiful ways. With his time measured in months, Koby made the most of every day.
Yet, Koby’s moral courage didn’t start with his diagnosis at age 11, rather it was an integral part of his character for as long as I had the pleasure of growing up with him. Koby Gruenwald was an exemplary friend, an upstanding character, and a role model to not just me, his younger brother, but also to his greater community.
I fear however that through solely speaking of Koby’s courage, I don’t acknowledge his hardship and fear. Koby may have been the bravest person I ever met, yet he was also so incredibly terrified. The unbearable treatments, vast changes to his lifestyle, and virtual death sentence led to extreme sorrow and difficulty. Knowing the Wellness Program of the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders(CCBD), heavily funded by team Wheels of Justice, was there for him is in turn a comforting thought. Programs through the hospital, such as the daily patient-run radio show, Seacrest Studios, served as motivation for patients such as Koby to get out of bed each morning. Moreover, Bob Casey, Ph.D. of clinical psychology, head of the Wellness Program assured patients received top-notch psychological support. Additionally, the unceasing compassion and kindness of the staff of the hospital helped to support patients both in their moments of courage, and in those of immense fear.
Yet, the sad reality of private non-profit institutes, such as the Children Hospital of Colorado is a constant need for donation. The Courage Classic, an annual biking fundraiser, in turn helps to fund the hospital. The specific team I participate in, team Wheels of Justice, particularly raises money for the Wellness Program of the CCBD. Through raising millions of dollars over the last 19 years, Wheels of Justice has been able to heavily fund positions such as Casey’s, and provide the support that many patients so desperately need. It would be so appreciated and so meaningful, if you could therefore donate whatever you could to support this cause.
Thank you so much,
Micah Gruenwald
For more information about Wheels of Justice, go to https://www.wheelsofjustice.com/
