The Dow Family
After a year of striving to survive, we’re dreaming of one weekend to simply be a family again.
Our story
We’re a family of four who have always loved making memories together—from the beach and BMX to a good meal around the table. Then, shortly after our 13th anniversary (lucky #13), my health drastically declined overnight, and I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Multiple Myeloma cancer 6 months later. Since August 2025, my husband has cared for me while our boys (12 and now 9) have grown far beyond their years, helping our family navigate a year none of us could have imagined or ever wanted. We've grown even stronger as a family, but in ways we never would've ever wished it would've have come. But isn't that how God works? :)
What the weekend would mean to us
After a year of cancer treatments, our family is exhausted. My husband has been my caregiver, chef, and strength, while our boys (12 and 9) have been absolute rocks. While I am grateful to be moving on my own now, I’m not 100% and can't return to work yet. This has caused severe financial strain, putting BMX, family trips and simple dinners out of reach. This ranch has ironically become a beacon for me. initially following because I loved the business idea and my 6'1" husband's obsession of Highland cows, but the posts about faith became my lifeline during dark days. We desperately need a weekend to forget bills and cancer, to laugh, and to let my husband drop the heavy weight he carries. The timing feels divinely orchestrated. I joined a company last year that just announced a retreat at your ranch, but my health stopped me from qualifying. Seeing this contest open the very next day feels like a door opening where another closed. I'm learning to trust these moments, and we would treasure every second.
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Their supporters
If an entry that comes through The Dow Family’ link wins the national final, The Dow Family win a free two-night stay at the ranch — whatever happens in their own bracket.