Asheville Children’s Hospital Installs Special Bell for Kids with Cancer

Asheville Children’s Hospital Installs Special Bell for Kids with Cancer

Mission’s Children’s Hospital in Asheville has recently introduced a heartwarming initiative by installing a new bell for their youngest cancer patients to ring upon completing their treatment. The first child to ring the bell was Cullen Gaston, who bravely fought leukemia since the age of seven months.

A Symbol of Triumph

“The people here at Mission became family, and we loved being here the best we could,” shared Rachel Gaston, Cullen’s mom, expressing gratitude for the support they received during their challenging journey.

A Touching Gesture

Clinical Nurse Supervisor Meg Kerr, a 25-year veteran at Mission Hospital, played a pivotal role in making the bell installation a reality. Kerr’s inspiration stemmed from a family’s simple request for a bell to mark their child’s victorious moment in the battle against cancer. With the help of a friend at the Biltmore Estate, blacksmith Steve Schroeder crafted the bell, infusing personal significance into the project as his own son sought care at Mission Children’s Hospital.

A Beacon of Hope

“The bell signifies the end of something terrible and the dawn of a new chapter,” remarked Cullen’s mom. With Cullen now in remission and back home since last July, he has resumed his life, enjoying typical childhood activities.

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