Two sweet Johnstown girls, third-grader Emilia Stewart and second-grader Dillon Paswaters, decided to turn a simple craft project into real help for people with cancer.
They made colorful paper bags and “squishies,” small paper fidgets you can squeeze and crinkle like a stress ball, then went door to door selling them around their neighborhood.
“We made them because we wanted to help people who have cancer,” Dillon said.
The neighbors responded in the best way possible. They bought the crafts, encouraged the girls, and helped spread the word. The girls sold out and even made more to meet the demand, ultimately raising $78.
“I hope it will be enough money to help people at the cancer center and at least fix up one or two people,” Dillon said. This week, the girls delivered their donation to the UCHealth Cancer Center in Fort Collins, where they were greeted by staff who wanted to meet the girls and thank them for their extraordinary kindness. The donation has been allocated to UCHealth Northern Colorado Foundation’s Oncology Patient and Family Support Fund, which provides funding to help cover essential expenses for patients and families throughout their care journey.
“Emilia and Dillon’s generosity is truly inspiring,” said Amanda Giacalone, senior director of UCHealth Northern Colorado Foundation. “Their creativity and compassion remind us that anyone- no matter their age- can make a meaningful difference for patients in our community.”
Emilia shared her message for patients. “We hope that you get better, and we hope you never have to go through that pain again.”
Dillon added hers. “I did this for you because we want to help you guys. It’s a good cause. It’s going to help people. And it’s super nice.”
The girls say they are already imagining new crafts and new ways to give back, inspired by the neighbors who supported them and the people they hope to help.