A Heart That Gives: Jacqueline's Story of Kindness, CF and Hope
Some people have a remarkable way of bringing comfort to others, even when they're facing tremendous challenges of their own.
Jacqueline, affectionately known as Jackie, is one of those people.
Jackie lives with cystic fibrosis (CF), a disease she knows all too well. Her adult grandson also has CF and lives with her, making the challenges of this disease part of everyday life for both of them.
But there's another beautiful part of Jackie's story. In her spare time, she makes handmade teddy bears for children who need a little extra love.
Jackie with her handmade bears
A Little Comfort, Made with Love
Jackie spends her time and resources creating colorful teddy bears to donate to children, including those entering foster care. It's a simple but meaningful gesture, giving a child something soft to hold during an unfamiliar or frightening time.
Her own childhood experiences inspired this tradition of giving. Having spent part of her childhood in an orphanage before being adopted by her aunt and uncle, Jackie understands how much a small gesture of comfort can mean.
Her CF social worker describes her as someone with a selfless heart who rarely asks for help, even when she needs it herself.
And recently, Jackie was the one who needed a little kindness.
Jackie with her grandsons Braedon and Zach
When Life Becomes Overwhelming
Since losing her husband, Jackie has faced the difficult responsibility of managing household expenses on a limited income. Rising utility costs, mortgage payments and everyday necessities have made it increasingly challenging to make ends meet.
At the same time, she has continued managing her own cystic fibrosis.
Following a recent hospitalization for a CF exacerbation, Jackie was facing another difficult recovery, with the added stress of worrying about how she would pay her bills.
Her social worker reached out to Claire's Place Foundation, hoping our Extended Hospital Stay Grant Program could provide some relief.
In her application, Jackie shared just how much that assistance would mean.
"This would give me a much needed breather to catch up on other bills."
Mr. and Mrs. Claus with Jackie and Zach, both living with Cystic Fibrosis
A Little Kindness Comes Back Around
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Claire's Place Foundation was able to help Jackie with her housing expenses during this difficult time.
Her reaction when she learned she would receive assistance was one we'll never forget.
"I'm simply speechless. I'm crying and so happy all at the same time! You have no idea how this is going to help me get through the next couple of months."
Having just returned home from the hospital, Jackie was still facing a challenging recovery. But knowing that some of her financial worries had been lifted gave her something she desperately needed: hope.
"It's been a long road back this time but this has made my whole week. I know I'm going to make a big recovery now!! I have real hope!"
In her follow-up questionnaire, she shared another heartfelt message:
"This grant has helped in a way you absolutely can't imagine! My heart is so full and grateful."
The Power of Giving and Receiving
What makes Jackie's story so meaningful is the beautiful reminder that even those who spend their lives helping others sometimes need someone to help them.
Through her handmade teddy bears, Jackie has brought comfort to children facing difficult circumstances. Through the Extended Hospital Stay Grant Program, our donors were able to offer Jackie some of that same comfort when she needed it most.
At Claire's Place Foundation, we believe no one living with cystic fibrosis should have to face a medical crisis while worrying about losing their housing.
Sometimes, helping someone keep a roof over their head means giving them the breathing room to rest, recover and find hope again.
And for Jackie and her grandson, having that stability at home is especially meaningful.
Your generosity makes stories like Jackie's possible. By supporting our Extended Hospital Stay Grant Program, you're helping people and families living with cystic fibrosis find stability and peace of mind during some of life's most difficult moments.