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Almost 25 years ago, two Austin women, Meredith Cooper and Melissa Hicks, recognized a critical need in the community. Both had experience working with pediatric patients in children’s hospitals and became aware of the immense need to offer developmental and coping support to children and families struggling with parental illness or injury. Parents often don’t know how to explain complex medical situations to their children in a way that can ease their wonders and worries, so they frequently hesitate to tell their child(ren) about their diagnosis and treatment. To address this significant need, Wonders & Worries was born – a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing professional support for children and teenagers through a parent’s serious illness or injury.
What began as a local effort has blossomed into a beacon of hope that now reaches families across the nation. The heart of Wonders & Worries remains in Texas, where the community’s unwavering support has been instrumental in helping thousands of families navigate the emotional challenges of serious medical diagnoses. Today, this trusted, one-of-a-kind organization offers national resources and virtual support, ensuring that no family, no matter where they are, must face the journey alone.
A Personal Story of Hope
For families like the Lindstedts, Wonders & Worries has been nothing short of life-changing. Renee Lindstedt recalls the fear and uncertainty that came with her cancer diagnosis, especially when it came to her children. “From the moment I received my cancer diagnosis, our biggest concern was how to tell our children,” Renee shared. “Thankfully, my oncologist recommended Wonders & Worries, and I cannot thank them enough for
the incredible support they provided. Ashley, with her hands-on approach, helped ease my 6 and 11-year-olds’ fears by explaining my diagnosis, treatment and surgeries in a way they could understand.”
Renee’s experience is just one of the many stories of how Wonders & Worries steps in during difficult times, offering children knowledge and coping strategies that empower them to manage their emotions. “Ashley empowered them with knowledge on how they could help at home and taught them how to cope with their worries. Wonders & Worries made a challenging time a little easier for our family, and my husband and I are forever grateful for their compassionate guidance.”
How You Can Support Wonders & Worries
As Wonders & Worries continues to grow, the organization remains deeply rooted in the Austin community, where the support of volunteers, donors, and advocates has always been key to its success. There are many ways to get involved and help families going through some of the hardest moments of their lives:
- Volunteer: Whether it’s volunteering at one of our events or serving on an event committee, volunteers play an essential role in keeping Wonders & Worries thriving.
- Attend or Sponsor an Event: One of the best ways to support Wonders & Worries is by attending or sponsoring their upcoming Envision Gala on February 28th at the JW Marriott in Austin, Texas. This annual event is one of Wonders & Worries’ most anticipated and biggest gatherings that brings the community together to raise critical funds, allowing the organization to continue expanding its services and reach. The Envision Gala is not only an evening of celebration, but also a chance for Austin residents to make a tangible difference in the lives of families facing serious illness or injury. For the Envision Gala, there are still several sponsorship levels and tables available.
- Spread the Word: Share the mission of Wonders & Worries with friends, family, and colleagues. The more people who know about the organization, the more families can benefit from its life-changing services.
Looking Forward
With the support of Austin’s vibrant community and the expansion of national services, Wonders & Worries is poised to help even more families facing serious medical challenges. “Every volunteer, every donation, and every advocate help ensure that children receive the emotional support they need when their families are going through the unimaginable,” said Nicole Halder, Wonders & Worries’ Senior Director of Development and Outreach for Central Texas.
Join us in supporting Wonders & Worries—whether by volunteering, attending or sponsoring the Envision gala or another event, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can make sure that no child faces a family’s medical crisis alone and will thrive despite their parent’s serious illness or injury.
To get in touch with Wonders & Worries and find out about upcoming events, check out their website at wondersandworries.org, subscribe to their email newsletter or follow them on social media.
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