“Life isn’t fair or unfair; it’s just life. Each of us has the chance to make the most of it. James Birrell, as young as he was, understood that in his bones. Each day he looked past his cancer and saw another opportunity for adventure.
That was his gift to his family and friends. He inspired them. An they helped him share the gift of inspiration with the world.” Peterborough Examiner

“In a telephone interview, James says that when it comes to dealing with illness and the pain the treatments cause, you have a choice: yes or no – do you want to fight the cancer, or do you want to let it beat you. ‘I always pick yes,’ he says with a chirpy voice.” The Haliburton County Echo

“Every day, the Birrells get messages from people who say James changed their lives after they read about him.” National Post

“James Birrell’s faith and bravery one day may help save the lives of other children with neuroblastoma, a cancer of the nervous system.” Toronto Star

“When (James relapsed), Syd began to share his story via the Internet… Syd wrote of James’s tragedies and triumphs. Tens of thousands wrote back. Online, Syd had created a community of people who cared about James and supported the family.” Canadian Living

“What makes the Birrell family so intriguing and inspiring is that everyone knows that each day could be the last for their life together. They take the time to treasure sharing, creating memories, seizing the beauty and laughter of a day.” The Morning Star

“Syd and Pam work tirelessly to provide the best life for James and the family. That means focusing all their energy on filling the three children’s days with wonderful memories. They turn little things into adventures.” National Post