06/10/2026
As we celebrate 20 years of the Foundation Angel Program, we are sharing 20 stories of families we have served over the past 20 years.
This is Heather's story:
Heather came into our lives as a NICU nurse at Brandon Hospital, lovingly caring for the tiniest, most fragile babies. She was a pillar of compassion, playing a key role in the National Infant Loss Remembrance Day Ceremony each October in Adam's Garden.
When Heather reached out in 2021, she was walking through every parent's nightmare — her husband Chris battling thyroid cancer, and then her own breast cancer diagnosis. As he finished treatment, she began chemo and radiation.
We walked alongside Heather and her family in every practical way we could. Her daughters got manicures to lift their spirits. The family received cleaning services, help with electric bills, and gift cards. Counseling was arranged for their daughter, who was carrying the weight of her mom's illness while still grieving the recent loss of her grandfather. A Christmas Angel adopted the family so the holidays could still feel like Christmas. In the spring, our Junior Angels showed up to pull weeds and refresh their yard.
When HOA notices began threatening fines over their home's exterior, T&J Painting stepped in and painted the house — lifting one more burden from a family already carrying so much.
As Heather's health declined, we kept showing up with dinners delivered while Chris sat by her side. She fought with everything she had. Heather lost her battle with cancer one day before her 49th birthday, leaving behind her husband Chris and two beautiful daughters.
Her story stays with us. It's why we do what we do — and why your support makes all the difference.
