SRQ Magazine | Spirit of Giving | Blaze of Hope

BLAZE OF HOPE

Spirit of Giving - December 2022

MY SWEET SON BLAZE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH LIVER CANCER at seven months old.

This was the hardest time of my life by far. I had to take a leave from my job because he was so sick, and we spent most of our time in the hospital. Blaze endured aggressive chemotherapy and multiple surgeries. During that time, I was able to stay with my baby boy and be his mom, and I was able to sleep in the hospital bed with him nightly, not missing a precious moment of time with him. My community banded together to ensure provisions for my son and I were met. Donations were made, fundraisers were held, and even jars collecting funds were placed on the counters of convenience stores. The compassion, love, support, and prayers gave me hope in my greatest time of need. Sadly, Blaze passed away at 13 months old.

While at the hospital, I saw other families desperately needing HOPE of their own. Not only were they struggling with the unexplainable sadness and pain involved, but they were also struggling to meet their personal financial responsibilities. These people chose their child instead of their mortgage payment, a choice no parent should have to make. This experience has driven my whole life from that point forward. What motivates me is my dedication to honor my son by showing the same love, compassion, and grace for others I once received. I created "Blaze of Hope" a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to families of hospitalized children with life-threatening conditions. Every day I am thankful for another opportunity to “spread HOPE like wildfire.”

Our Wishlist:

We are always seeking donations so we can continue to provide financial assistance to families

We pay their personal bills and expenses so that they can spend more time with their sick child and less time worrying about their bills.

We are desperately in need of a building or space for Blaze Of Hope as we have outgrown our living rooms. It's time for an official Blaze Of Hope headquarters...because, with your help, we plan to continue to grow.

We are also seeking an army of volunteers. Our volunteers donate their time by raising awareness and building community through our numerous events, partnerships, and fundraisers. Be blessed!

HOPE BLAZE OF HOPE 16237 WINBURN DRIVE SARASOTA, FL 34240 LISA@BLAZEOFHOPE.ORG | BLAZEOFHOPE.ORG FACEBOOK.COM/BLAZEOFHOPE | INSTAGRAM.COM/BLAZEOFHOPE @BLAZEOFHOPE