Melissa Fulling is the founder of Live Like Cameron here in Flagler County. Many know her as a positive person always bringing hope and positivity wherever she goes. Positive vibes were not always easy for her however, as she has suffered one of life’s hardest tragedies, the loss of a child. Read about Melissa’s story below.
How does it feel to be nominated as a positive person in the community? It feels great, but I don’t really feel deserving of that; honestly, but it feels great. I feel like the kids deserve that more than me, they keep me going.
Can you tell us a little bit more about your story? Well, most of my journey is based on how positive my son was. So he inspired me to be more positive and he basically just changed everything for me. He was so positive, and I guess I became positive through that. But, I just don’t always see myself as being that positive. My son Cameron battled brain cancer for seven years and passed away right before he’s been ten years old. So we started with Live Like Cameron to give back to each other.
Were there ever any times that you really struggled with having a positive outlook on life? Absolutely, obviously once my son passed away. So sometimes it was really hard to see, as much as I want the kids to excel and do fun things, sometimes I can’t help but think, ‘I wish my son was here doing things as well.’ So that’s hard to get past sometimes. But it just brings me joy to seeing the other kids doing well.
What are some things that help get you through some of those struggles that you have with remaining positive? Definitely the other cancer kids, their positive attitudes, their struggles they go through. I’m always like, if they can do that, I can get through my day. Definitely the kids.
How does your positive nature impact Live Like Cameron, the organization that you have? Well, I do feel like sometimes people are going through the toughest thing that’s in their life, the parents especially. So I feel like being positive lifts their spirits a little bit. And they too see, even though I’ve been through the worst, having a good attitude can just can make them feel better.
What is something that the children at Live Like Cameron inspire you with? Well, the biggest thing is just to know what they’ve gone through and just still be smiling. And like Allen, for example, you met Allen. He has the most positive attitude that he’s been through, so much. And just to see him live every day with so much joy and be so grateful for every day. And it’s not just Allen, all the kids are like that. But it’s a good example.
What is something you hope to inspire in the community? Well, I would say I would like to inspire people to know that even though you could go through the worst castle thing in your life, that you can still do good. And. You can still be positive and help others get through the worst times of their life as well.
