Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare and aggressive cancer that originates in the soft tissue, often in the skeletal muscles or hollow organs like the bladder and uterus. It primarily affects children and can be divided into two main types:
Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS):
- The most common form of RMS.
- Typically affects younger children.
- Commonly found in the head, neck, and genital or urinary organs.
Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS):
- More aggressive than ERMS.
- Affects all age groups but is more prevalent in teenagers and young adults.
- Usually occurs in the arms, legs, chest, abdomen, and genital or anal areas.
Lukas Kusters was a brave young boy who battled Rhabdomyosarcoma and became known as “The Dutch Destroyer.” Despite his courageous fight, Lukas passed away, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. To honor his memory and continue his legacy, his family formed the Live Like Lukas Foundation in late 2017.
Join Us in Honoring Lukas Kusters
Today, we honor and celebrate Lukas Kusters and the Live Like Lukas Foundation. Join the Byrd Cancer Foundation at the 7th Annual Live Like Lukas 5k Run/Walk: Crushing Childhood Cancer on Saturday, September 14, 2024, in Wilmington, DE.
The Live Like Lukas Foundation was born out of an overwhelming desire to keep Lukas’s memory alive by giving back. Inspired by the love and support they received from numerous non-profits during Lukas’s illness, his mother sought to create an organization that would help other families facing similar battles. The foundation gained widespread attention following an ESPN special that highlighted Lukas’s admiration for Carson Wentz and the Philadelphia Eagles, showcasing the special bond they shared.
Live Like Lukas Inc. offers “Dutch Destroyer” bracelets for purchase and welcomes donations to support its mission. The foundation focuses on three main areas:
- Supporting families fighting childhood cancer.
- Funding childhood cancer research.
- Supporting local non-profit organizations that Lukas cherished.
All proceeds and donations are directed towards these important causes.
Join us in making a difference in the fight against childhood cancer! Your participation and support can help honor Lukas’s memory and bring hope to countless families facing this challenging journey.
