September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
I was blessed to be able to speak directly with the Director, Nikki Rogers, of Caring for a Cause to fill us in on some details of who they are and what they do. She is a truly inspiring lady who does amazing things for our community.
1. So, Nikki, Tell us about YOU.
I am a single mom of three amazing boys and one fur baby dog. My bill paying job is in Property Management I am a Regional Manager in Macon. Next to my boys, Caring for a Cause is what I am most proud of. I love Mexican food and Country music. I live my life by Jesus's commandment to " Love one another"
2. Please explain more about what Caring for a Cause.
Caring for a Cause is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit servicing Henry and Butts county. Our primary focus is on assisting local families with children suffering from chronic or terminal illnesses through community involved grassroots fundraising. We also are helping combat childhood hunger through an expansive backpack buddies program that delivers ready to eat food to hundreds of local students who are suffering through situational poverty. Our all-volunteer staff of eight, work tirelessly throughout the year to put into action what Jesus said in John 13:34-35, “Love one another.”
3. We’d love to know about the first family you helped!
Maddie Briscoe was a seven-year-old second-grader at Ola Elementary that I heard about the week after Labor Day in 2010. She had been diagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma Cancer and was given a 20% chance to beat it. This young lady sparked a fire inside me, that lead me to find CFAC. Her parents invited me deep into their world. Her Dad, Darren, now serves on our board and writes all of our social media. Maddie is a Junior at Ola High School now and an intern with CFAC.
4. What is the significance of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to you?
And September is upon us... for many it means College Football is back, for others the start of Fall.... but for more, it should be the month that is recognized as a beast that has robbed children of their childhood and society puts on gold armor to defeat it!!! I'm asking you all to take a moment and follow Caring for a Cause to read the stories of these babies that have changed my life...they are fighters surrounded by believers. And I'm just honored to know and serve them and their families.
5. Do you have a most memorable story of hope from one of your families?
I really can't narrow down one or even five stories that touch me the most. I have been honored to see love like many do not know exist. Love of family and friends is one thing, the love of strangers is quite another. I have seen God do miracles and I have seen people find peace by helping others. I have seen the worst pain a parent can imagine and held their hands and I have been part of huge celebrations that their child won the war!! I have met the most amazing people, the strongest children and parents that will not give up. I know some of my kids (they are all mine in my heart) are truly marked and were chosen to tell a story and live HUGE.
6. How can people help Caring for a Cause?
Best way to help our get involved is to follow us on Facebook and jump in. For those who do not know, my family is one of the Caring for a Cause families. They will be hosting a one pitch adult softball tournament for our son, Easton, who has a rare terminal metabolic disorder and for another little boy, Deuce, who is battling brain cancer on October 4th, 2019. Please see Caring for a Cause Facebook page for more information. These are my family and Nikki and her whole staff is exceptional people who have bent over backward to welcome us with open arms and do whatever is needed to help our family. If you are looking for a nonprofit to help, please consider Caring for a Cause.
