On March 18, 1989, Scott Robert Banke was born to Bob and Carmen Banke. Upon his arrival, he bonded immediately with his older sister, Leslie, to make their family complete. As he grew, Scott loved all the things young boys love to do: camping, hunting, fishing, playing with his little dog; Gracie. He also enjoyed, R.C. cars, collecting Hot Wheels, participating in various sports and, of course, teasing his big sister. One of Scott’s favorite things was telling jokes and making people laugh. He developed a desire and the skill to learn and perform ‘magic tricks’. He frequently entertained family and friends with the tricks that he learned.
When Scotty was ten years of age, a physical check up confirmed that he had developed a bone cancer called, Osteosarcoma. Life for him and his family changed dramatically. The first course of treatment for this condition was chemotherapy. With determination, he began the treatments. Following this, Scotty underwent several surgeries and eventually, he underwent the ‘stem cell transplant’, in hopes that this would overcome the cancer. Through it all, Scott’s attitude was cheerful and upbeat. His positive attitude during his 2-year struggle kept his family and friends from falling apart many times. With his loving spirit, mischievous eyes and his unique ability to entertain, he would make others smile and laugh, even when times were tough!
Scott wanted people to know that, with his Faith, he was OK with having cancer. He was a light that other kids, their parents and even the medical professionals that cared for him were attracted to.
The Foundation’s title came from a video Scott made while on a Make-A-Wish cruise. One of the last clips, Scott turned the camera on himself and told of the day’s events ending by saying “See Ya Later!” The brief but poignant clip ended Scott’s memorial service, telling over 1,100 people “See ya later!”; which began a lifeline of hope for so many families.
The Foundation board is honored to carry on Scott’s legacy, zest for life and undeniable Faith in God. Although the “See Ya Later” Foundation has accomplished a great deal over the last several years, we are truly grateful and humbled by the support of so many. There are a lot of children that need to know they have hope for their future and Scott’s legacy has inspired us to help them find it.
Scott’s struggle with cancer ended on May 6, 2001. And, though our tears still fall, we know that in heaven he is alive and well. Scotty’s desire is that he will… “See ya later”!
Video: One boy's story
