History

Live For Today Foundation, Inc. was co-founded by three young adults who each battled a form of cancer. Todd, Katie and Kaitlyn met while supporting cancer research at a community event and bonded over their similar stories of diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and lack of community and support.  Passion for helping others to live for today inspired them to fill a void in the Northeast Florida cancer community by creating organic support and inspiration for young adult cancer patients and survivors.

Live for Today was incorporated in the State of Florida on August 1st, 2012.  The organization was granted 501(c)3 federal tax-exemption on June 18, 2013.

Live for Today’s first member joined in April 2013 and membership has now reached over 100 young adult cancer patients and survivors.  To date our volunteer staff has fulfilled 19 Life Adventures, hosted more than 60 Group and Healthy Living Events, and completed over 25 hospital and home visits.

Todd Blake

“I live one day at a time and make sure to enjoy each moment with people who care about me.”

At 18, Todd Blake was diagnosed with cancer, specifically – Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. While the cure rate for this disease was an encouraging 90 percent, Todd’s cancer had progressed to the most advanced stage, stage IV. After a grueling 5+year fight through many different treatments, Todd is now considered in remission. Cancer changed Todd’s outlook on life. Todd’s experience has sparked a strong desire to help other young adults with cancer to find enjoyment and purpose in their lives. As a five-time survivor he is now pursing his career in Michigan with his wife Maja.

Katie Pearsall

“I always come back to these: physical and mental strength, compassion, faith, gratitude, and attitude. Focusing on love and joy through each day can get you through anything.”

Katie was diagnosed with Stage II Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at age 22, just after graduating college. Having always been an avid athlete and leading an active lifestyle, Katie discovered how important maintaining that lifestyle was during her treatment. She also discovered how difficult it was to do on her own. During that time, she aspired to help others connect to their physical and emotional needs during treatment by creating a safe place for encouragement and support, and she is getting that chance through Live For Today.

Kaitlyn Ash

“Life without living isn’t really life. So everyday live your life, and be the person you want the world to see.”

Kaitlyn was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma, a childhood bone cancer at the age of 12. After getting over the initial shock of having cancer, she vowed to become a survivor while living each day with passion and excitement. Kaitlyn feels incredibly lucky that she has always had such a strong support group in her life, so Live For Today is a wonderful opportunity for her to give back and inspire other young adults who are battling cancer.