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The Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation was inspired by a three year old boy diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma. Two years later, he suffered a relapse. One day his mother broke down in tears as she shared the hardships she and her family had faced. She spoke of unplanned and extended hospital stays, expensive medications, sometimes costing as much as $1,000.00 after insurance. Furthermore, she shared the dilemma of giving up her income in order to care for her son and accompany him on hospital stays.
She also faced the fear of not knowing whether her son would live. She and her family were seemingly drowning because even though there was support it still was not enough assistance to help them during this difficult time.
After this conversation I realized the great need for a support system for families with children suffering from cancer on the Central Coast. One year later, with the determination to assist families enduring similar if not the same situation, the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation was born.
Nikki Katz