Six.

I will never think of that number the same again.

Last evening I attended a benefit auction for Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.  The event was appropriately titled, “Heroes on the Hill.”  You only needed to look to the person next to you to see one.

I have attended A LOT of events over the years and this was the most compelling, mission-driven event I have ever witnessed … thanks, in large part, to the inspiring story of Liam.  A six-year-old boy battling a cancerous brain tumor.

I had the opportunity to spend time with Liam’s family a few weeks ago.  I was so impressed with the grace, strength and optimism they carry through this journey.   

But what struck me even more, was their tremendous sense of gratitude.

Gratitude for the doctors and nurses that care for Liam.

Gratitude for the support of family and friends.

And most of all, gratitude for the generous donors … who had never met them … but who, over the years, have supported Doernbecher, making Liam’s care possible today.

And they wanted to pass that on.

And they did … big time.

They courageously shared Liam’s story with the audience last night and inspired the room to continue that tradition of giving.  To ensure that the same level of care that Liam is receiving, is available to all children … today, and into the future.

And while the donations flowed.  One in particular stood out.

Liam had heard earlier in the day that a generous donor was going to give $50,000 at the auction.  Liam went to his room … unprovoked … got into his piggy bank and brought six dollars out to his parents.  One dollar for each year of his life.  And at the auction, Liam gave his little baggie containing six dollars to the auctioneer. 

An unforgettable moment.

Suddenly, audience members were holding up their bid cards and yelling out, “six … six … six!”  So the emcee asked if everyone in the audience would be ok adding six dollars to their tab.  Resounding cheers filled the room!

The donations continued … $50,000 was the largest gift … but six dollars was the most significant.

Young Liam taught us that although there may be heroes all around us … the true hero … lies within us.

That’s the power of six.

* Liam’s $6 Club:  www.doernbecherfoundation.org