United Independent School District is taking a stand in the fight against childhood cancer. The District held a press conference to announce the month of September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. UISD also announced its ongoing partnership with Smiles from Heaven, a local childhood cancer organization devoted to helping families affected by childhood cancer and spreading awareness.
UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz and members of the District’s Board of Trustees shared their thoughts on the importance of bringing attention to these diseases. Smiles from Heaven co-founders Ray and Betsy Sanchez told the story of their family’s struggle with childhood cancer when their daughter, Bella, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and ultimately succumbed to her illness. It was this tragedy that inspired them to create this organization and help other families who are suffering through the hardships of pediatric cancer.
Special guests at the event were families whose children have battled or are currently fighting cancer. Their stories were told in a video produced by UISD’s Public Relations Department.
LINK TO VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ur6S2dn29C4?si=2426d8e-74UGpAe-
Childhood cancer is the leading cause of death from disease in children and adolescents.
According to the American Association for Cancer Research, the cancer death rate has declined by 70 percent among children (from birth to age 14) and 64 percent among adolescents (age 15-19) over the past four decades, thanks to advances propelled by cancer research. Despite those advances, thousands of children and adolescents will be diagnosed with some form of cancer, and many of them will die from these diseases.
Through this partnership, UISD hopes to educate the community about childhood cancer and all the resources available to help families fight these diseases. The District and Smiles from Heaven also wish to inspire people to donate money to cancer organizations and help fund research, as well as help children and families who need financial assistance for treatments.
To make donations to Smiles from Heaven, go to https://www.smilesfromheaventx.org or email info@smilesfromheaventx.org for more information. The money is used to help families with travel expenses, meals, and lodging, as families most often have to go out of town to get the necessary medical treatment for their child. In addition, Smiles from Heaven provides grants, and organizes local support groups for families needing comfort, hope, and spiritual support.
Ray and Betsy recount the story of their daughter, Bella, who succumbed to cancer, and how the experience moved them to help other families battling the disease
UISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gerardo Cruz
UISD District 1 Board Member Gilbert Aguilar, Jr.
UISD District 7 Board Member Frank Castillo
UISD District 5 Board Member Javier Montemayor
UISD District 6 Board Secretary Michelle Molina recounts her battle with cancer, after having been diagnosed right after graduating from high school when she was 18 years old.
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