Danilo's RoomSwing into Danilo's jungle-themed room! We know he will be up to some serious monkey business in this fun-filled, friendly space!
When we saw Danilo's sweet face and big brown eyes we just couldn't wait to make his room extra special. This tough little three year old has not had an easy road but you would never know from the grins, kisses and hugs he gave all of us! Danilo was born with Congenital Polycystic Kidney Disease. Since he was a very little baby he has endured 16 hours a day of dialysis in his crib due to kidney failure. Danilo was lucky enough to receive a kidney transplant at UCLA Medical Center but he remains a very medically fragile child. His disease has damaged his liver (cirrhosis) and spine. Danilo's family knows the day will come when he will require another transplant - but they are focused on the positive and providing Danilo and his sister a loving, caring home for their children to grow and thrive. His teacher shared, "This family has endured so much and yet they are some of the most joyful, thankful and kind people I have ever had the honor to know. Nothing would thrill them, or myself, more than to offer a room makeover for a little boy who spends most of his day in his room." Our team shares this sentiment. There was nothing but gratitude pouring out from this family from the time they were notified of the nomination - all the way until the final picture was snapped at the reveal - and even after we left the building! It is so lovely to be able to provide this deserving family with a special place for Danilo and his equally special sibling, Katarina, to play together. Thank you Catherine and wonderful teens and supportive parents from TVIA for helping us complete our 46th room makeover. Thank you for your dedication, passion and commitment and for making this Sweet Dream Makeover possible for Joseph. |
Teen Volunteers in Action (TVIA)Thank you to Teen Volunteers in Action (TVIA) for helping us transform another space for children with special needs in San Diego! We absolutely love working with this wonderful organization and we couldn't be happier about this group of six amazing teen boys donating their Saturday to help Danilo and his supportive family.
These teens were immediately set to work - unloading the van, assembling Danilo's new crib, and making the walls come to life with monkeys and other jungle friends! We are always impressed with the quality of the teenagers who are helping us! Thank you to TVIA for generously donating their time and talent AND for the very generous donations, including Danilo's new crib, rug, hamper and a great collection of books and toys! Teen Volunteers in Action is an organization of young men who, together with their families, participate in structured programs of volunteerism, philanthropy and personal development. TVIA believe that through volunteer projects like Cecily's Closet, these young men will grow up to become strong community leaders. We had seven teens help with every aspect of the room – from painting the closet, to building the furniture, cleaning, and interviewing the family. We would like to commend them for their hard-work and we look forward to working with TVIA in the future! |
Cecily's Closet