The fun has begun for ten families who’ve been through more than most can imagine.
Jason’s House, a nonprofit founded through Surfside United Methodist Church, is providing a week-long, all-expenses-paid for ten children with cancer and their families. The ministry works with 13 hospitals in South and North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia that connect families to Jason’s House.
The nonprofit has been doing this for 34 years. This summer Jason’s House is providing vacations for a total of 60 families, including the James family, who drove down to Myrtle Beach from Charlotte, North Carolina on Sunday.
“When the doctor told me what the diagnosis was I just had to step back for a moment and take a deep breath. It did break my heart,” said Trasha James.
Her daughter, 6-year-old Natiya, has been battling leukemia for the past two years ago. Trasha says Natiya has faced every hospital visit and chemo treatment with no complaints.
“You have this little teeny person who just, she lives. She lives her life to the fullest even while going through her storm. So she’s teaching me to go through my storm with honor and grace.”
Jason’s House works with 200 volunteers, many of whom do not attend Surfside United Methodist, and several local businesses to give them a week they’ll never forget. Local hotels donate rooms for the week. The families get to visit several local attractions for free, including Pirate’s Voyage, Ripley’s Aquarium, the Alabama Theatre, and Carolina Opry.
“It’s life from a different view. We’re just really ready to enjoy her life and embrace everything around us,” said James.
“These families, a lot of them, their children have never had a vacation, couldn’t afford one, are not able to have one. And for some it’s their last vacation,” said Elaine Paige.
Yet for others, this week marks a celebration.
“One year ago we were here with heavy heart, feelings. Very hard. But this year is a celebration for us, and we are very happy to be here,” said Fernanda Bogran.
Her son, Alex, was diagnosed with cancer last May. After a series of chemotherapy treatments and surgery he is now in remission.
“It was hard but in the end you can see the light in the tunnel. And everything turns out for the good,” Alex said.
So what’s first on this week’s itinerary?
“I’m excited to go to the beach today,” Natiya said.
“It’s awesome. It’s fun. With all the options, I don’t know what to do. I like the mini golf. I wanna do some mini golf,” said Alex.
