This award is given in honor and loving memory of Daniella Gad. As a daughter, a sister and a best friend, she was inspiring, gracious, caring, and a radiant soul who beautifully touched every life she encountered. Daniella was the kind of person whose kindness didn’t just make you feel seen, but truly known. With a heart full of compassion and a spirit that refused to be dimmed, Daniella lived each day with courage, warmth, and authenticity.

Daniella was the best friend of Galena, who now serves as Chief Operating Officer of Handstand Walk For Kids. The two were inseparable since fifth grade, growing up side by side, sharing dreams, laughter, and a bond that felt more like family. Together with Daniella’s mom, they created this award to carry forward Daniella’s legacy, a tribute born from love, friendship and a shared dream to make a difference.

When they created this award in Daniella’s memory, they hoped it would be more than just an honor, we wanted it to be a spark. Daniella led with her heart, with quiet strength, and with a deep desire to lift others up. She never needed a spotlight to make a difference. Let this award serve as a reminder of what truly matters: showing up for others, speaking out for those who can’t, and letting compassion guide your actions.

Even in the face of unimaginable challenges, Daniella never gave up. Her strength was quiet but fierce, the kind that lifted others even as she was fighting her own battle. She had an unshakable sense of self, a love for life, and an open heart for everyone around her. Daniella didn’t just endure; she advocated. She was deeply committed to helping kids who were on the same journey as her, and those who didn’t know the road ahead. Her dream was bold: a world where cancer no longer exists; and she believed in it with everything she had. Her legacy lives on in every step we take toward a world without cancer.

This award celebrates those who exemplify her spirit: someone who took initiative in their fundraising and advocacy, helped those around them to do the same and someone who is truly passionate about this cause. This award can be awarded to a team captain who has lead with determination, a participant who has went above and beyond, a parent who became a champion for the cause, a company that fuels our mission, a gym that elevates this fundraiser to extraordinary heights, a host who passionately spreads our message, or a doctor eager to join this journey. What connects them all is what connected Daniella to this mission: relentless love, fearless advocacy, and a dream that never fades.

Through this award, we honor not just remarkable efforts, but the legacy of a girl who never stopped dreaming of a brighter, cancer-free world.