For its 75th anniversary, the healthcare organization Anthem Blue Cross partnered with the Jessie Rees Foundation earlier this month at the UCI Medical Center to distribute JoyJars to children with cancer.
“Our mission is to improve the health and lives of the people we serve. There’s no better way to do that than by bringing a smile to the face of a child in the hospital,” said Pam Kehaly, president of Anthem Blue Cross. “Through our partnership with the Jessie Rees Foundation, we hope to brighten the day of hundreds of children and their families this holiday season as they recover from their illnesses.”
Named for 12-year-old Jessie Rees, who lost her 10-month battle to two brain tumors, the foundation distributes JoyJars to children fighting cancer. First made by Rees in an effort to spread hope and joy to others fighting cancer, the 64-ounce containers are full of toys and activities for children. They are now a national symbol of hope.
“As Jessie fought brain cancer, Anthem Blue Cross was our insurer and helped us get the best possible care for her,” said Erik Rees, Jessie’s father and current head of the foundation. “Now, Anthem Blue Cross continues to help us so we can live out Jessie’s dream of bringing joy to thousands of kids this holiday season.”
Currently, Anthem Blue Cross has donated $30,000 to fund 1,500 JoyJars for this holiday season.
BY JASON WHEELER