From Our Journey to Theirs: Supporting Mama Bears

On May 22,2024, our lives changed forever when my son was diagnosed with infant leukemia, a very rare and aggressive form of leukemia. Ozzy had 96% of cancerous cells in his body. As a parent, nothing prepares you for hearing the words that your child has cancer. Suddenly our world became filled with long hospital stays, chemotherapy appointments, endless appointments, fear, and uncertainty for the next 2 years.

During this difficult time, we were introduced to Mama Bears Fighting Childhood Cancer, and their support meant more to us than words can explain.

One of the most impactful gifts we received was their hospital wagon. During long hospital stays, this wagon became more than just a wagon — it became a lifeline for comfort, normalcy, and support. It helped us carry the essentials we needed while moving between rooms, appointments, and hallways, making exhausting days just a little easier. The first year of treatment, hospital stays were anywhere from 5 days to weeks long admits. This meant having to lug a lot of personal items back and forth from our room to the car. This is where the wagon came in handy. 

The wagon was filled with thoughtful items that brought comfort to both my son and our family during some of our hardest days. When you are living in a hospital, even the smallest acts of kindness and support make a huge difference. Mama Bears made us feel seen, supported, and not alone in this journey. The mattress topper allowed us to sleep a little more comfortably in the hospital bed. The mini fridge allowed me to store my son's favorite snacks and milk bottles so I did not have to leave the room to fetch them. 

Organizations like Mama Bears Fighting Childhood Cancer step in during the moments families feel overwhelmed and exhausted. They provide practical support, emotional encouragement, and resources that truly make a difference for families navigating childhood cancer.

Now, as a family who has experienced their kindness firsthand, we want to give back and help them continue supporting other families walking this same difficult road. Every donation helps provide hospital wagons, comfort items, and support to families who are facing the unimaginable — a childhood cancer diagnosis.

By supporting this GivingEdge fundraiser, you are helping Mama Bears Fighting Childhood Cancer continue to bring comfort, hope, and practical support to families like ours during their darkest moments.

Thank you for helping us give back and support other childhood cancer families. 💛