Founding Family Spotlight: The Hlavaceks
Jeff and Erika, both airline pilots, live in Wilmette, Illinois with their kids Francesca and Antonio. When Erika, who didn’t have any risk factors, was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer, the family’s world was turned upside down. Then Jeff was diagnosed with stage IIIb colorectal cancer.
They knew their kids needed extra support. That support came when the family got together with Pickles founding families, the Smiths and Agnews. The connection between their kids was immediate and it grew, week after week.
“A big key was just getting to be themselves with other kids who understood what they were going through,” says Erika. “The kids just had a good time.”
The Hlavaceks can’t wait for Pickles to reach more families. Erika knows the idea of building a community with strangers can feel daunting.
“I don’t want anyone to think this isn’t for them, or ‘I don’t feel comfortable,’ or ‘I’m too shy,’” she says. “Everyone should feel welcome.”
Here’s how you can help Pickles grow so we can provide support to kids and families at a time when they need it most:
Sign up for our newsletter.
Become a founding donor.
Share our programs with families and organizations who can benefit and partner with us.
