What’s my back story?

After experiencing my cancer diagnosis in 2017, I reflected on how I was cared for during that time, i.e. cards, flowers, words of encouragement, monetary gifts, tangible gifts, etc. I never knew I needed until I received them. Gifts and items I would have never thought to give as a gift, they all came in handy.

I reflected on being a caregiver for my mother in love when she went through chemotherapy and radiation in 2008-2009. I remember having to sit with her for 6-7 hours, sometimes 8 hours for her sessions. I remember packing her lunch and snacks, water, blankets, crossword puzzles, etc. anything I could think of because I refused to leave her alone. I would notice others there with no support and none of the items I’d brought with us. I also remember the nursing staff always expressing to my mother in love how blessed she was to have someone there with her, taking care of her, and making sure she had everything she needed. A few years later, I would experience the same fate with my mother who also endured and survived breast cancer. At one point both mothers were battling breast cancer at the same time. It was overwhelming to say the least.

I've always been passionate about giving. It wasn’t until I was diagnosed and survived Ovarian Cancer that I realized how important it is to bless others with tangible items to brighten their day, encourage them with hope and provide a sense of compassion they would need during their new norm.

In last quarter of 2019, I had the burning desire to create a collection of items that would not only encourage cancer survivors, thrivers, and warriors, they would be items they’d need to carry with them to their treatments and doctors appointments. I began to research and plan different approaches to bring awareness to this horrible disease.  During the planning stages we were all faced with the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2020, I faced another health scare and was under doctors care for the remainder of the year. During that time the outpour of love, gifts, and support was overwhelming . I knew then it’s was time to get up and do what I know will be beneficial to those who will hear the horrible words, “You have cancer.”

Often times, there aren’t words to say. We are left pondering how to support our friends, family and those we care for deeply when they’re facing health challenges. Sending "Encouragement In A Box" will show them your care and compassion for what they’re going through. That is why we are intentional with the collections we’ve created.  Our desire is to aspire to inspire while bringing hope, love, peace and joy to those who need it.

You are not alone. Sharing hope everyday inspires us to live life to the fullest...Your fight is my fight! 

Thank you. 

Tonya