[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]At Family Reach, we’re thrilled to announce the latest member of our family, JUST TRYAN IT. Through children’s triathlons, this distinguished nonprofit empowers communities to raise awareness and funds for families struggling with the financial burden of a cancer diagnosis.

As JUST TRYAN IT’s new distribution partner, we ensure the dollars from their committed donors get directly into the hands of those who need them most – families struggling with the financial burden of cancer – quickly and efficiently. Working together, we’re welcoming new hospital partners and expanding our reach like never before. The funds from JUST TRYAN IT will be distributed to families in and from their local communities in the Triangle region of North Carolina as well as the metro-Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD areas.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”13132″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Thanks to their efforts, dedication and generosity, we help more families remain in their home, put food on their table, safely travel to treatment and maintain access to critical cancer care. Below is just one example of this powerful partnership.

The Phillips family

For the Phillips family, 2016 was an extremely difficult year. A tragic accident and a pediatric cancer diagnosis brought on an emotional and financial crisis almost too difficult for the family to bear.

In August, Ralph and Maria’s youngest son was killed in a hit and run. Completely devastated, the loving parents tried to find a way to re-join the world.

“I struggled everyday from the minute I opened my eyes. I couldn’t imagine continuing on like nothing had happened to my boy,” says Ralph.

Exactly two months later, Ralph and Maria’s youngest daughter, Irene, began complaining that she felt dizzy. Within a few hours, Irene was transported via ambulance to the hospital. That same evening, she was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor and emergency surgery was performed.

Rebuilding, again

In the months to follow, Irene underwent several surgeries and completed her first three rounds of aggressive chemotherapy. Both Ralph and Maria had taken a leave of absence from their jobs following the death of their son. While caring for their daughter, they ran out of paid leave time, dropping the family’s income by 100 percent.

Without any income, the family quickly depleted their savings and ran through the generous donations from friends and family. They had no way of paying for their home. Overwhelmed, Maria approached Stephanie, the family’s primary social worker. Stephanie connected with Family Reach, who, with the help of JUST TRYAN IT, was able to cover two months of the family’s rent. With their housing stabilized, Ralph and Maria focused on supporting Irene and ensuring she maintained access to the critical care needed to overcome cancer.

“I was extremely concerned about what was going to happen to this family and to Irene if they could not find money for their rent. Because of Irene’s fragile medical condition, homelessness or substandard housing would put her chance of survival in jeopardy. I can’t thank Family Reach and JUST TRYAN IT enough,” says Stephanie.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Sign up for Email Updates