We are excited to announce that ATURA Architecture and Dean Snyder Construction have partnered with the Pinky Swear Foundation to assist the organization, both financially, and in their efforts to raise awareness of the wonderful things that they do to help kids with cancer and their families with financial and emotional support. We first became aware of the organization back in 2017 when Don Snyder heard Mitch’s story told on WHO radio for their annual Pinky Swear Radiothon, and we have been doing what we can to get involved ever since.
Mitch was nine years old when he was diagnosed with bone cancer. When he was in the hospital in December he overheard the family next to him having a discussion that there would not be enough money for Christmas that year. Mitch looked at his dad and said, “This isn’t fair. How much money do I have in the bank?”
His Dad, Steve, replied that he wasn’t sure, but they could find out. Mitch insisted that they go get it. Steve helped Mitch into his wheelchair and took him to the bank. Mitch withdrew all the money he had in his savings account and put it in envelopes for the kids on the pediatric oncology floor at the hospital. He signed each envelope. “Love Mitch. XOXOXO.”
Steve and Mitch returned to the hospital and delivered the envelopes by putting them on nightstands, under doors, and on beds. As they were leaving the last room, Mitch exclaimed to his dad, “Dad that is the most fun I have ever had! Let’s do it again next year!”
Steve sadly replied, “Mitch, you are probably not going to be here next year.” Unfortunately, Mitch’s prognosis was not good. Mitch asked his dad to do it again next year and Steve agreed.
Mitch looked at his father and said, “Dad, promise me you will keep helping kids with cancer! Pinky swear with me that you will do it forever!”
Steve and Becky Chepokas established the Pinky Swear Foundation in memory of their son, Mitch, keeping the pinky swear promise to help families who have a child with cancer.
The Pinky Swear Foundation helps Iowa Families who have a child battling cancer by:
- Paying their mortgage and rent payments (paid directly to the bank/landlord)
- Providing reliable transportation – car payments, repair (paid directly to the bank/garage)
- Delivering memorable family experiences – weekend get-away and other quality time together
- Helping with bill payments, utilities, furnace replacement, etc (paid directly to companies)
Sadly, nearly 1 out of 11 of these families will file bankruptcy, which is “five” times the national average. Every Iowa family eligible that applies will be assisted, with some families receiving assistance more than once. Grant funding ranges from $100 to $2,000, with an average gift of $750. This assistance helps them to focus on what’s important – their family.
This is why ATURA and Dean Snyder Construction have made it our priority to support the Pinky Swear Foundation moving forward. Until a cure for cancer is made, it’s important to support these families, which in turn keeps our communities strong.
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