SPRING HILL, Fla. — A Spring Hill woman who suffers from a chronic illness is inspiring sick children across the country with care packages.
Katie Stanina sends care packages to kids with chronic illnesses and special needs.
"I love when people send me pictures of their kids opening it and I just see the smile," said Stanina.
Katie knows what it’s like to be sick. She was born three months premature and suffers from painful connective tissue disorder.
"I try to find the positivity in each day, that really helps. Even if it was just that I was able to get out of bed for a little bit," said Stanina.
In December, Katie was having one of her sickest days. But that all changed when she unexpectedly received a care package in the mail.
"I was almost crying because it made me so happy," said Stanina.
She still wears the bracelet she was given.
"It says hope, faith, love. That was one of the favorite things I got it the care package," she said.
She was inspired to pay it forward. So she started "Chronically Courageous Warriors," sending care packages to others like her from ages 2 to 28.
She pays for it with some donations but mostly with her own money.
"I don't mind using my own money but it does get expensive with shipping and sometimes I can't send any that month," said Stanina.
She sends everything from fun socks and leggings, to hot wheels; and even toys for service dogs. She also includes a personalized handwritten note of inspiration.
"My goal is to bring hope to those who suffer the effects that chronic illness can bring. And they tell me that it really helped brighten up their day," said Stanina.
If you would like to help send these care packages to sick kids click here for options to donate.
To learn more about the program, visit www.facebook.com/CCWbyKatie/
