I started Alex’s Angel Blankets on July 30th of 2017, a nonprofit organization that makes blankets for kids with cancer, chronic illnesses, autism, down syndrome, and other illnesses.
Like many of these kids, I suffered through a battle that almost took my life- a battle with anorexia nervosa.
While in the hospital, I received a blanket and care package. I realized that I wanted to spread awareness about children with diseases; to start a cause that helps kids smile again and give them hope to keep winning their battles. Thus AAB was born.
I am 15 years old and live in Ohio. I have made over 30 blankets and 50 care packages. I donate all of them, free of cost. I decide who will get a care package on their age, illness, and location. I do not turn anyone down unless they don’t meet these requirements. Most of my care packages include fun items like ribbons, coloring, paints, stuffed animals, toys, balls, and much, much more.
I am so passionate about spreading awareness for childhood cancer because I have seen so many kids suffer from it.
I want to help find a cure. I do not volunteer with any other cancer organizations, but my dream is to work with Cincinnati children’s hospital. My favorite cancer organization would have to be Hannah’s Happy Bundles or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Through my involvement with spreading awareness for childhood cancer, I want to pursue a job in the medical field as a physical therapist to help kids who suffer from diseases and/or injuries.
The most rewarding part about my charity is seeing all the smiles on kids’ faces and knowing that they have hope to keep fighting.
Some of the hardest and most challenging parts of running my own charity is the time, commitment, and the hate I get for not being able to send packages overseas, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I always stay positive because of my family and smiling, happy children. I love helping others, and I have a huge heart. The thing I wish more people knew about childhood cancer is that only about 4% of government funding goes towards cancer research. You can help the cause by spreading awareness, volunteering, or donating to childhood cancer advocates or organizations.
I have brought Alex’s Angel Blankets to life.
I do this on my own and my family supports me. It can get challenging, but working hard and balancing times makes it worth it. I want to expand my organization and hopefully am able to ship overseas some day. I hope anyone who is reading this will help make a difference in our world today.
If you’d like to keep up with Alex’s Angel Blankets, be sure to follow on
Instagram @_alexsangelblankets_
Facebook @alexkoch
