Emily Liu and other volunteers of the Pixie Dust Adventure Company has organized a fundraiser for a local eight year old girl. ZoeJane Betker has been diagnosed with DIPG, a rare form of brain tumor that is inoperable. Here is her story as told on the ZoeJane Strong website.
December 30th was the day that changed everything. The day the world stopped for the Betker Family.
7 Year old Zoe is the sunshine in their home. Full of sparkle and sass. She is currently taking acting lessons and loves to perform. Her smile lights the room.
She had a wonderful Christmas, but began to see double on Christmas Day. Concerned her Mom had her lay down, upon waking she was ill. Thinking it was Christmas excitement they weren’t overly concerned.
By December 29th when Zoe complained she could see double of everyones faces her parents worriedly ran her to the ER, at which time a MRI was performed and the diagnosis given.
DIPG…
A four letter word no parent should ever hear. A inoperable Brain tumor on the Brain Stem.
The Pixie Dust Adventure Company will be holding a fundraiser and crowing her royal princess. “We are crowning her a royal princess at a Princess Tea Party on Feb. 24 at 10:30 am at Talon’s Cove Reception Center in Saratoga Springs. More important than funds raised, we want Zoe to feel beautiful and loved at this event. We want to fill the room with kids! We are also trying to get as many other cancer kid warriors out to the event as possible.”
Emily experienced loss when her little sister passed away several years ago. Since then as been working “to raise money for kids in need and to visit children who have suffered the tragic and sudden loss of a parent, children with terminal illnesses, and special needs children.” Misty Liu says this about Emily, ” Knowing how hard trauma can be for kids, she wanted to do something to help. She realized that she could use her talent as a performer to touch hearts and help heal through trauma.”
Other local businesses have been very generous as well for this event. Ridley’s is donating the food and Dippidee is donating cupcakes. And the Pixie Dust Adventure Company is donating its time and talents as well.
Additional Resources
ZoeJane Strong website
Pixie Dust Adventures Company
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.