Emily Swallow Instagram – My heart is broken in sharing this news, but our warrior friend Spencer Thorsland left this world early Monday morning. I am better for having known him, and I hope that his story inspired and encouraged those of you who have been following. Spencer was only 13 years old, but his impact is proof that it’s not the number of years we’ve been that determine how we affect people; it is how we spend the time. @voicesagainstcancer put me in touch with Spencer in 2022 because he was such a fan of @themandalorian and they thought I’d be able to left his spirits while he was going through treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma. I quickly realized that I had a lot to learn from this foundling- he was a fighter, a giver, a wonderful creator and a wise soul. When he got the news in November that his cancer had resurfaced yet again and the doctors had reached the limits of their treatment options, he told me “Don’t worry. When I’m gone, I can be your guardian angel.” Spencer leaves behind a remarkable mom, dad, stepdad and five brothers. I am honored to have spent time with his family to witness their incredible hope and faith that, although Spencer is gone from this world, he is free from pain and they will all be reunited in a heaven that is devoid of suffering. Let’s honor Spencer and so many others who have left this world too early by offering a word of support and encouragement to someone who is dealing with difficulty on this #thisisthewaywednesday. Spencer’s funeral will be this Saturday and a livestream link will be provided. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established at the First National Bank (101 S Splitrock Blvd, Brandon, SD). Checks can be made to the Spencer Thorsland Memorial Fund. #bucketsoff #thisistheway #spencerthorslandday #rhabdo #pediatriccancer #givekidsavoice #forthefoundlings #thearmorer #themandalorian #cancersucks #guardianangel