Collin's Story

Collin truly believed his mission was, in his words, “to help kids with cancer.”

At the age of seven, Collin Truitt Poynter was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive children’s cancer that is typically found when children are very young.  Collin started treatment at University of Kentucky’s Pediatric Oncology Clinic in conjunction with professionals at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center’s Oncology Division.  During 2001-2003, Collin underwent a stem cell transplant, four rounds of chemotherapy, and two rounds of radiation.  In 2004, he was treated at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia with two MIBG treatments, an intensive form of radiation.

Whitley Goins and Collin, both 7, at UK’s Children’s Hospital, January 2001

Collin lost his courageous battle on September 22, 2004 at only 11 years old. Two years before his death, Collin started raising money to give back to the numerous organizations and individuals that helped him in his fight.  Collin was following a wonderful example set by his good friend, Jarrett Mynear who founded Jarrett’s Joy Cart (www.thejoycart.com).  Before Collin passed away, Collin’s Classic was formed to continue his work as a non-profit organization.

In his short life, Collin touched the lives of everyone with which he came in contact.  He was born in Athens, Georgia and spent his preschool years in Lubbock, Texas.  He made frequent visits to Owensboro and Keavy, Kentucky where his extended family resides and spent his last six years living in Lexington and Versailles, Kentucky.  Collin has influenced many people across the nation who have joined his mission of assisting children and their families struggling with cancer.