My sincere gratitude to the committee that came to Rene’s side and supported him through this – it fills my heart with joy to know that there are people in my community who would do so much to help a boy and his family this way.
- Anna Maria Campbell
(a Provincial Government employee who worked in the same building as Rene's mom)

                                                                                                                       "All I really need is a song in my heart, and love in my family."
                                                                                                                             (a beautiful quote from a Rafi Song that Rene listens to )
                                                                                                                                                                                          - submitted by Brienne

In early February 2010, little Rene Soto Taylor turned 4 years old. This happy little boy spent that day running about with his trademark smile and bright laughter, enjoying every minute of his birthday party - with games, a big cake, and every wonderful birthday treat a boy deserves.  

No one could have predicted that in just a few short weeks Rene would have trouble walking without severe pain -  and after multiple medical tests - be diagnosed with cancer.  

Rene’s mother, Julia Taylor, had been an auxiliary with the then Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts since November 2008.  For various reasons, Julia was ineligible for sick days or emergency leave.  Rene’s dad, Luis, who works in construction, was unfortunately in a similar situation – no paid leave.   

Rene was diagnosed with stave IV neuroblastoma on March 17, 2010 and spent more than a year in and out of the BC Children’s Hospital receiving chemotherapy and other treatments, with his parents at his side. 

A dedicated group of supporters came together to form Rene’s Rainbows - a committee focused on raising funds, fostering support, and inspiring hope for Rene and his family.

Their motto was "The Soto Taylor Family’s priority is to combat Rene’s illness. Lessening their financial worries is our priority." and they DELIVERED for over a year. 

They raised enough funds for the family to put their money worries aside throughout Rene's entire treatment, freeing them to focus on what is important:  Little Rene.   What an astounding accomplishment!

Everything was accomplished by people who volunteered their time, skills, energy, and PASSION!

The members of Rene's Rainbows surprised even themselves: 

It is not all that common to have the opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life. Little Rene’ managed to make a difference in many lives at the tender age of 4. He has taught us that hope works. That even busy people trying to make it in today’s world will still give until it hurts. That a few people can change the world, one family at a time. That cancer is not a death sentence. Rene’ taught me not to be a wimp...if he can smile with tubes strapped all over his little body, I can darn well suck it up to be pleasant to irritating people on the phone. The most important difference that Rene’ made in my life is that he brought back my faith in my fellow man. People do care about each other. Not everyone is in it only for themselves. We have family out there where we least expect and help really can come out of the blue. Miracles happen and prayer is not all in vain. It was my great privilege to get to know Rene’ and his family and to get to be part of this group.

- Beth Weathers



A quote submitted by Manji Sekhon:

"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."

- Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)
 

Able to stay together, Rene's family did surprisingly well.  Rene achieved remission in December 2010, then completed a few more months of an experimental treatment that will hopefully prevent relapse. 

On July 27, 2011, after scans and a bone marrow biopsy confirmed that he is still negative for neuroblastoma Rene had his central line removed from his chest.  On that day the family joked with some of the doctors and nurses who cared for Rene throughout his treatment that they have to go home and try to be normal -- whatever that is.  Rene was making plans to take a deep bath and go to Beacon Hill park and turn on that fountain at the play area -- and stand there until he's SOAKED. Heck, he might even take his shirt off.