More than 2,000 children in Southern California are diagnosed with a serious illness, like cancer, each year.
The burden can weigh heavy for that child's family, but for those near the poverty line, that diagnosis can lead to homelessness or even more sickness.
This week's KNX Hero of the Week is doing her part to stop that from happening.
Autumn Strier is the co-founder and CEO of Miracles for Kids. Its a non-profit organization based in Orange County that helps struggling families with things like food, clothing, and shelter - allowing the family to focus on providing care for their sick child.
Autumn tells me Miracles for Kids began in 2004, through a collaboration with a childhood friend.
?"I made a phone call to Children's Hospital and asked how can we help children," says Autumn. "What is it that children and families need the most?"
She found that a cancer diagnosis can be especially devastating to families already in financial crisis. And, family members often have to make the painful decision of whether to keep working--or be with their child during treatment.
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Autumn tells me that when Miracles for Kids tries to step in - to relieve some of that burden. In some cases, offering the family a monthly check, so they can pay their rent bill, and put gas in the car.
"We have other programs that puts food on the table, assist you with mental wellness, clothing deliveries, food deliveries."
Housing is also offered at a place called Miracle manor.
"We have several families that have been with us since 2005. Because the treatment period can be - and normally is - for cancer, a bone marrow transplant, or an organ transplant... that can take up to 2, 3, 4 years. "
And, Autumn tells me that children in treatment respond better when the family is in a stable position.
As a kid herself, Autumn says she was on receiving side of charity, so she knows how important it is to have someone help you stand up when things are down.
"There's always been a deep drive inside me to help," says Autumn. "We've had over a thousand families with kids battling over a hundred different illnesses come through Miracles for Kids' doors over the last 15 years, and they are truly inspirational."
Autumn herself is an inspiration, and that is why she is this week's KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes! If you would like to nominate a KNX hero, go to KNX1070.com or send an email to heroes@KNX1070.com.
Heather Jordan, KNX 1070 News Radio.
