Benny is nine and lives in Los Angeles, California. The outgoing and energetic third-grader is an avid sports fan. He enjoys rooting for his hometown Clippers and loves to play baseball.
When “Benny the Brave,” as his family calls him, was 17 months old, he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer that affects a few hundred children each year. While Benny underwent treatment, Chai Lifeline volunteers would regularly visit him in the hospital, entertaining him and keeping his mind off illness. During those turbulent times, Chai Lifeline volunteers were there to assist the family however they could. They delivered delicious meals to the hospital and their home. They made sure Benny’s siblings were looked after, coordinating special activities and games, helping with their homework, and celebrating each of their birthdays. Benny himself has spent five magical summers at Camp Simcha and during the year attends Chai Lifeline Shabbatons. His older siblings are now Chai Lifeline volunteers so that they can give back and offer support to families undergoing similar challenges.
“During our darkest days, Chai Lifeline was there to brighten our lives,” said Benny’s parents. “When we could hardly maintain enough energy to focus on the ‘big’ things, Chai Lifeline stepped in to handle the ‘little’ things.’ They were there for us every step of the way.”
Updated February 2020.
