87R9791 BK-D
By: Raymond H.R. No. 169
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Smiles from Heaven, a nonprofit organization
founded in 2019, is making a positive impact in the lives of
children who are battling cancer; and
WHEREAS, Ray and Betsy Sanchez established Smiles from Heaven
in loving memory of their two-year-old daughter, Bella Serena
Sanchez, who passed away on April 9, 2019, following her fight with
leukemia; the organization is dedicated to promoting childhood
cancer awareness and to giving support, assistance, and hope to
children and families receiving treatment for pediatric cancer or
blood disorders; and
WHEREAS, Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death
for children past infancy in the United States; each year,
approximately 175,000 families around the world hear the
devastating news that their child has cancer, but thanks to
improvements in treatment, more than 80 percent of patients with
pediatric cancer in the U.S. will become long-term survivors; and
WHEREAS, Since its inception, Smiles from Heaven has
advocated for childhood cancer awareness throughout the state and
nation in partnership with Be the Match, the South Texas Blood and
Tissue Center, and GenCure; it has cumulatively served over 1,000
families, provided free travel totaling more than 1,000 miles to
specialized treatment centers, and donated some 21,000 miles worth
of fuel to help allay families' travel expenses; in addition to
offering financial assistance, the organization hosts support
groups and other programs to help parents and children cope with the
emotional stresses that accompany a cancer diagnosis; and
WHEREAS, Smiles from Heaven has been a source of
compassionate guidance to South Texas families going through a
difficult and uncertain journey, and it is a pleasure to recognize
this commendable organization and the inspiring work it has
accomplished; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas
Legislature hereby honor Smiles from Heaven for its service to and
advocacy in behalf of children living with cancer and extend to all
those affiliated with the organization sincere best wishes for the
future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the organization as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.