Meet the Family
Meet Casey and Janette
Casey and Janette Schwendeman are the proud parents of Josie and the founders of Josie Silver Linings. Guided by their deep faith as Christians, they live out servant leadership and stewardship in every aspect of their lives, dedicating themselves to uplifting others.
Beyond their work with the nonprofit, Casey is a skilled construction manager, and Janette is a dynamic wealth management partner. Despite their demanding careers, they navigate the challenges of raising three children and running a nonprofit with grace and determination.
Fueled by their unwavering faith and a shared mission to bring hope to families facing pediatric cancer, Casey and Janette’s story is one of resilience, love, and an inspiring commitment to making a difference for young warriors and their families.
Meet Kinley
Kinley is the vibrant and spirited big sister in the Schwendeman family, radiating energy, compassion, and determination. As an active and athletic young girl, she thrives in cheer, tumbling, and soccer, embracing every challenge with grace and grit.
Her journey as a cancer sibling has shaped her into an incredibly compassionate and understanding individual. From the moment Josie was diagnosed, Kinley faced the changes in their family dynamic with resilience and a heart full of love. She has grown into a role model for her siblings, navigating life with gratitude and strength beyond her years.
After taking a break from her favorite activities during Josie’s treatments, Kinley’s return to cheer and sports marks an exciting new chapter. Whether she’s tumbling at practice, kicking goals on the soccer field, or performing with her cheer team, Kinley reminds us all to cherish the little moments and celebrate life’s blessings.
To her parents and everyone who knows her, Kinley is a shining example of courage, determination, and joy. Her mom, Janette, says it best: “I am so, so proud and can’t wait to see all you become!”
Meet Caden
Caden is Josie’s brave and heroic older brother, a young boy with a heart as big as his courage. At just 6 years old, Caden became a life-saving hero for his sister when he donated bone marrow during her relapse in 2023. His selfless act of love and unwavering support during such a critical time reflect his strength, compassion, and the extraordinary bond he shares with his little sister.
Caden’s journey as a cancer sibling hasn’t been easy, but he has faced it with remarkable resilience. Alongside his role in Josie’s recovery, Caden shines as an active and energetic boy who loves soccer and football. Whether he’s scoring goals on the soccer field or tackling challenges on the football field, Caden’s enthusiasm and determination inspire everyone around him.
His dad, Casey, captures Caden’s spirit perfectly: “Caden has the biggest heart and the fiercest love for his family. Watching him step up for Josie and embrace his role in her healing has been one of the proudest moments of my life.”
Caden’s bravery and kindness remind us of the incredible power of hope, love, and family. He is a true hero—not just to Josie, but to everyone lucky enough to know him.
Meet the Young Warrior
Josie is so much more than her cancer journey—she is a joyful and adventurous little girl who lights up every room she enters. Despite the challenges she has faced since being diagnosed with leukemia at just 11 weeks old, Josie’s spirit is full of love and wonder.
Josie adores being outdoors, exploring the world around her, and joining her family on adventures. Whether she’s tagging along to her sister’s cheer practice, her brother’s soccer game, or enjoying a simple walk outside, Josie embraces life with enthusiasm and curiosity.
At home, Josie finds comfort in snuggling with her family in the warmth of her own home. For Josie, the little moments—laughing with her siblings, reading a bedtime story, or soaking in the love of her family—are the biggest treasures.
Her journey reminds us all to count the small blessings, live with gratitude, and enjoy every moment of the beautiful gift of life. Josie may be a young warrior, but above all, she is a little girl who deserves to laugh, play, and experience the world as every child should.
As her mom Janette says: “When you hear your child has a 35% survival rate at 11 weeks old, moments like these—a bedtime story with all my kids—are a true dream come true. Life is fast, so be grateful, kind, and humble. Embrace the journey!”
Josie’s courage inspires, but her love of life is what makes her truly extraordinary.Learn more about Josie by following her on Facebook and Instagram.