Dear God, why did you give me cancer?
Chad was in my youth group back in the 80s. In the summer of 2013 his daughter Kristina wrote me a note with that question. I tried to give an answer in Bizarre 2!, but fell short. One day I’ll see her again, and she can show me her mansion and introduce me to Jesus who will answer the question with depth. She went to heaven June 21, 2014.
Meanwhile, I’d like to live with some of the grace she showed throughout her life.
When Kristina was diagnosed, Helping Hands, a division of The Children’s Cancer Recovery Foundation, walked with the family through some incredibly difficult times. It seems logical then, that all of the profits of Bizarre Bible Stories 2! should go directly to Helping Hands. It really is fun to give this way, you don’t notice the money you never had. I know they will use the funds better than I would, and this way I’m not tempted when the Jeep catalogs come in.
So, Buy a Book, Help a Family Battling Cancer.
After my publisher, Heritage Builders, got in touch with Greg Anderson, the founder and CEO of Cancer Recovery Foundation International, he sent me this kind, very gracious letter. Makes me realize it’s one of my best decisions ever. Here is part of the letter…
Dear Pastor Cooley,
Growing up Lutheran in rural Iowa, I was taught the definition of grace was God’s unmerited goodness. If ever there was a perfect example of grace, your donation of royalties to Children’s Cancer Recovery Foundation is it. Thank you. We gratefully accept.
Even with good health insurance, the downward financial spiral of families dealing with childhood cancer is ubiquitous. It’s the combination of increased medical expenses like co-pays, travel, lodging and more, while at the same time the family’s income typically declines as parents must take time off work to be with their sick child. Last year, Helping Hands received applications for financial assistance totaling $294,079.00. We were able to fund only $120,603.00. May I suggest your gift be designated and restricted to Helping Hands where it will fund past due rents and utilities of families who have a child battling cancer.
Finally, know how grateful I am for your gift.
With sincere appreciation,
Greg Anderson, Founder & CEO
Cancer Recovery Foundation International
Tel: 936.231.8460, x-110 Fax: 936.231.8462
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