Last year, when she was just 13 years old, Artiola set out to bring the same sense of comfort and support that Aurora Health Care provided her grandfather and their family while he bravely faced cancer.
"When my grandfather was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, he relied on Aurora care teams. Against overwhelming odds, he lived an incredible seven years after diagnosis before passing away in 2013. His journey – and seeing both the strength of cancer patients firsthand and the compassion of the caregivers around them – left a lasting impact on me. As I got older, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful in his memory. I didn't just want to raise awareness about cancer – I wanted to create something that would bring hope and encouragement to those battling one of the most challenging times anyone could."
With support from Kids Impact Community and its Junior Leader program, Artiola launched a community service project that brought together local businesses, family, friends and neighbors to create wellness gift boxes for Aurora Cancer Care - West Allis patients.
Giving back has always been important to Artiola. She created a youth after-school enrichment program inspired by her experience studying language and culture abroad. Through the program, she works with community partners to offer hands-on activities that encourage fellow students to thrive in academics, disconnect from technology as necessary and prioritize connection, mindfulness and wellness.
What started as a small idea quickly grew into something much bigger. Thanks to generous support from Artiola, her family and the Milwaukee community, enough supplies were donated to create 100 gift boxes with special comfort items that can help make treatment days a little easier. More than 20 volunteers took time to write personal notes of encouragement, reminding every patient who receives a box that they have a large support system behind them – always, even if they may not realize it.
Artiola began taking college courses in the sixth grade and hopes to follow in her uncle's footsteps and become a doctor one day. Her generosity and effort to support our cancer patients will be an ongoing partnership with the hope of larger outcomes each year. "I want to help as many cancer patients as possible," she shared.
We are so grateful for everyone who worked together to make this incredibly selfless, thoughtful and meaningful gift possible. Thank you to Artiola for being a wonderful example of a true advocate and role model, at such a young age. We are proud to support you and carry on your grandfather's legacy.
How you can help
Aurora Health Care’s cancer programs and services are supported by philanthropy. Please consider making a gift today.