Read “The Joy of Giving Part Three”

The holidays are a time for reflection, gratefulness, and family. While many families with kids facing serious illness focused on their child’s health, we at the Children’s Cancer Association (CCA) turned our attention to their happiness.

With the help of 53 sponsor groups and 1,353 volunteers, we provided 62 families with presents through our Hope for the Holidays program, presented by Fortis Construction. Here is just one of their stories.

The True Meaning of the Season – Nelson/Lehr Family

“Our family has struggled these last few months, I knew Christmas would be such a stressful time. When my daughter’s social worker asked us if we wanted to be selected for a Holiday sponsor, I was worried and embarrassed at first. But when the truck came with all the wonderful and amazing gifts, I cried… I cried because giving is truly the meaning of this season and you all gave so much to us!

You reduced my stress and even provided us with much needed things, like the pillows. It isn’t often one person says they “need” pillows but ours were so old and the kids truly loved receiving them. To see their faces Christmas morning when all the gifts were finally out was a priceless moment.

Our oldest son, Carter, he is a “tough” teenager. But he absolutely adores his purple Lamborghini! It was such a wonderful surprise! He’s been playing with it like a little child since he’s opened it and I adore seeing him enjoy something like that, that isn’t a video game.

Emily (our youngest daughter) loved her Hatchimals and Chase was SO excited over his dart board (it’s been a fun game to play). Leah has several gifts she loved. The scrap booking box is overwhelming and I’m happy to say that Leah and her grandma will have lots of bonding hours over that! She loves all her books. The clothes I received fit very well. And I’m so excited to take the kids out to the movies!!

You all did such a wonderful job shopping for us and I can’t thank you enough!! It allowed my husband and I time to just enjoy the season and that in itself is the greatest gift.

How can I forget the gift cards! We were able to get items we needed, like a new microwave (because ours literally broke just days before) and it allowed the kids to pick something out for their siblings, which was so much fun!

So, while hearing those dark words that your child has cancer, I’m very thankful for organizations and people such as yourself. It is our dream that one day we will be able to pay it forward to other families because it truly does take a village to raise our children. Thank you so very much! With so much love and respect,  The Nelson/Lehr family”

Thank You

At CCA, we also feel grateful.  We’re grateful that so many give each year. Grateful that with the help of our sponsors and donors, we can continue to provide these types of special moments to families who need it most. Grateful for each and every one of YOU who has taken the time to share in our mission. Please consider making a donation today to help others just like the Nelson/Lehr Family.

If you are interested in sponsoring a family next holiday season, please email KDuVall@JoyRx.org.