Unexpected addition to Ozaukee County family brings hope in fight against cancer



GRAFTON -- An unexpected addition to an Ozaukee County family has brought them hope in the fight against cancer. And they're sharing their experiences across the state, to help find a cure for the disease.

Bill Foster



The nurses at the Aurora Cancer Center in Grafton have known baby Hope since she was born.

"We saw the baby, heard the heartbeat, and three hours later a doctor was telling me I had cancer," said Bill Foster.

Bill Foster found out he had Stage III colon cancer the same day his wife, Erin, had their eight-week ultrasound.

"It was devastating and heartbreaking and terrifying, because you never anticipate to hear those words," said Erin Foster.

Hope was not planned, but her impending arrival changed things -- pushing Bill to get through the roughest parts of surgery and chemotherapy. That's how she got her name.

Erin Foster



"She really is our hope and inspiration, and you know how cancer goes -- hope is the big thing about it," said Bill Foster.

Bill is one of a dozen patients featured in the Cancer Knows No Borders Campaign. Dollars raised in Wisconsin go to The Aurora Foundation.

"At Aurora, we treat one in four cancer patients throughout the state," said Cristy Garcia-Thomas, Aurora Foundation president & chief diversity inclusion officer.

Patient stories are published in the hopes of bringing in donations.

"Most people are able to quickly think of someone in their life who has been diagnosed with cancer," said Garcia-Thomas.



Bill ignored symptoms for years -- and wants to encourage others to seek help quickly.

"It could have been bad, six more months and we might not be talking this. I guess what I learned about myself is I'm not indestructible either, so go get checked," said Foster.

The Brewers' very own Chris Carter and the Cubs' Anthony Rizzo have teamed up to support the campaign. The campaign runs through November 10th.