A local nonprofit organization, ‘Fighting Cancer with Grace,’ has made a significant impact this holiday season by donating hundreds of care packages to cancer patients in the De Pere area. Founded by teenager Grace Fuss, the initiative aims to provide comfort and support to those battling cancer, inspired by Grace’s own experiences during her mother’s fight against breast cancer.
Key Takeaways
- Initiative Origin: Grace Fuss started the nonprofit in 2019 after witnessing her mother’s cancer battle.
- Care Packages: 200 care packages and 150 ‘thank you’ bags for healthcare workers were prepared.
- Community Impact: Over 1,200 care packages and 860 gift baskets have been distributed since the nonprofit’s inception.
The Inspiration Behind the Initiative
Grace Fuss, a local teenager, was motivated to create ‘Fighting Cancer with Grace’ after her mother, Jenni Fuss, faced breast cancer. The support they received during this challenging time inspired Grace to give back to others in similar situations.
Grace expressed, "Being able to continuously grow and make a difference in people’s lives is rewarding. The cancer patients that receive them reach back out, saying, ‘I love this bag, thanks so much.’"
Packing the Care Packages
On a recent Thursday evening, Grace, along with friends and family, gathered at the West De Pere High School library to pack care packages. The contents of these packages included:
- Comfort Items: Blankets, lotion, and personal care products.
- Entertainment: Puzzles and games to help pass the time.
In addition to the care packages, 150 ‘thank you’ bags were prepared for doctors and nurses working in local oncology departments, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
Distribution of Care Packages
The care packages are set to be distributed to several local hospitals, including ThedaCare and Bellin Health. Grace emphasized the importance of these small gestures, stating, "Just a small gesture knowing people are thinking of you really went a long way."
The Impact of Giving Back
Grace’s mother, Jenni, reflected on the impact of such initiatives, saying, "It’s amazing to just see the impact that she’s having at such a young age." Since its inception, the nonprofit has packed over 1,200 care packages and 860 ‘thank you’ gift baskets, totaling approximately $200,000 worth of items.
Grace encourages other young people to get involved in their communities, stating, "My advice would be just to go out there and do it, even if it’s something so small."
Conclusion
The efforts of ‘Fighting Cancer with Grace’ not only provide essential support to cancer patients but also inspire others to contribute positively to their communities. As the holiday season approaches, Grace and her team continue to spread joy and hope to those in need, proving that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.
