My son Sharif was 17 years old when he was diagnosed with Leukemia. It came as a shock to him and our entire family. He was one year shy of graduating high school. He had dreams and goals. He fought SO hard. Each time he was presented with a new medical condition, medication and/or illness, he fought like a WARRIOR and bounced right back. His favorite saying was, "This is a small thing to a giant." I remember his pain and tears but I also remember his incredible strength and desire to encourage other kids and families going through the same pain.
Sharif did walk across that stage at his high school graduation! We also celebrated his 18th birthday with great joy and pride. He fought to the very end and never lost his faith.
After spending almost 2 years in the hospital with my son, I had the opportunity to meet other families. We prayed, cried and encouraged one another. I am grateful for the support of family, friends and organizations that assisted us through the process.
There are so many families who simply need support and encouragement while battling this disease. Long days become long nights. Food, clothes and toiletries are needed. Sometimes mothers, fathers and siblings do not leave the hospital for days.
In Sharif's honor, we started the NEHEMIAH HOPE FOUNDATION. The foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing support to those diagnosed with and/or surviving cancer, as well as their caregivers, family and friends. There is Hope, Faith and Love. Never give up! Thank you for joining us as we assist families going through life changing events.
The mission & purpose of the Nehemiah Hope Foundation is to partner with community member networks to help families meet their physical, spiritual and psychosocial needs to improve their quality of life.
RMHC programs help alleviate some financial burdens for families with sick children. They have helped families save nearly over $443 million in hotel and meal expenses. We had the extreme pleasure of donating our time by preparing food for families going thru the same journey as we experienced.
To learn more about Sharif's courageous, inspiring and infectious pillar of strength, click on the button below to view a video that chronicles his life's journey.
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Welcome to Walk of Faith Now with Catrina Jacobs: Where Faith Fuels Resilience, Hope Ignites Courage, and Adversity Births Triumph. Join us for empowering stories, unwavering inspiration, and the tools to conquer life's trials. It's time to walk boldly in faith and embrace the journey ahead.