Freya Everly

When Freya was diagnosed with leukemia, our world changed overnight. Between hospital stays and treatment plans, real life kept moving — and when I had to step away from work, we suddenly went from two incomes to one. The financial stress quickly became another heavy layer in an already overwhelming season.

Pinky Swear Foundation stepped in during that time.

The organization was inspired by nine-year-old Mitch Chepokas, who, while battling bone cancer, gave away his savings to other families on the pediatric oncology floor. Before he passed away in 2003, he made a pinky swear with his dad to continue helping kids with cancer. Today, that promise lives on through financial support for families facing childhood cancer, helping cover housing, food, and transportation so parents can focus on their child.

Through their Orange Envelope Program, we received a gift card and heartfelt notes of encouragement — support that eased immediate financial pressure and reminded us we weren’t alone. That kindness allowed us to focus more fully on Freya and her healing.

We are incredibly grateful for Pinky Swear Foundation and the legacy of generosity that continues to support families like ours. If you’d like to help carry Mitch’s promise forward, consider donating to Pinky Swear Foundation.