Newsroom

September 23, 2008 | Posted by Caitlin O'Toole

Every year, 12,000 children in the US are diagnosed with cancer. In 2001, Allison Clarke's 18-month-old son, Quinn, was one of them. His struggle - and ultimate survival - prompted Clarke to start Flashes of Hope, a nonprofit organization that creates free, professional portraits of children with cancer or other life-threatening diseases. "It's a way for the kids to see themselves positively, instead of looking in the mirror and seeing a sick child," says Clarke. Her ultimate goal is to change the face of childhood cancer. "It's important to show that these kids are full of strength and beauty. We have an opportunity to have a huge impact." To learn more, and to see some of the inspiring photos taken by Flashes of Hope volunteers, go to Parade.com