Childhood Leukemia Society
Childhood Leukemia Society was formed by the James Speranta Organization for the sole purpose of supporting children and their families who have been diagnosed with Leukemia and cancer related illness in the City of Monrovia and adjacent cities. The Organization will hold blood drives and community charity events to raise funds, educate and raise awareness with the intent to assist children with cancer.
The James Speranta Organization was founded by the Speranta family following the diagnosis of their 16-year-old son James with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. James has currently completed a 3-year treatment program at the City of Hope for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. It is their hope that this organization will serve as a vehicle to help and educate other children and their families that are victims of this shocking diagnosis of Childhood Cancer. The stress and effects on the families are long lasting and can be devastating.
“1 in 5 children diagnosed with cancer in the US will not survive. For the ones that do the battle is never over.”
Crocet for Hope
Crochet for Hope is a heartfelt initiative launched by the Childhood Leukemia Society, bringing together volunteers from all backgrounds to handcraft cozy, personalized blankets for children undergoing cancer treatment. Each blanket is created with care, love, and intention and is meant to offer comfort, warmth, and a reminder that these young fighters are not alone.
Volunteers contribute from across the community, whether they’re seasoned crocheters or learning as they go, creating blankets large enough to cover a teen or child during their hospital journey.
What started as a way to bring comfort to one patient has grown into a movement, with over 50 volunteers contributing dozens of blankets that are lovingly packaged and delivered directly to pediatric patients, including those at City of Hope. During the pandemic, the effort persisted with safe drop-offs and coordinated delivery, showing that compassion doesn’t pause during times of crisis. More than just yarn and stitches, these blankets represent resilience, human connection, and the belief that even small acts of kindness can bring joy during life’s toughest moments.
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided from the point of view of a parent who’s child has undergone successfully the course of treatment for ALL B-Cell Leukemia and is not intended to be taken as advice. Any mistakes are mine and mine alone and I will happy to correct these as necessary but the intention is to share my family’s experience with the hope that it will be helpful to others but not be taken as advice on best course of action. Each situation and individual is different so working closely with your Primary Oncologist and Nurse Practitioner is the only advice we can give.
Childhood Leukemia Society is 501(C)3 non-profit organization (tax ID #83-0918325) and your charitable donations are tax deductible.
There is a shortage of blood and platelets in LA County, giving blood is giving life each and every time. You can donate every 52 days and dedicate your blood to a patient, or to any child in need. Make a difference today and save a life. GIVE PLATELETS