Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation changes lives

The Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation in Santa Barbara serves hundreds of young kids with cancer, making sure they get the support they need. The foundation provides different emotional programs and support groups for families from Ventura to San Luis Obispo counties. It also offers financial support upwards of $12,000 a year for those in need.

One in 300 children will be diagnosed with cancer by the time they are 20 years old. More than 160,000 children are diagnosed with cancer worldwide.

The organization was founded in 2002 by Nikki Katz. Since then it has provided critical services during the difficult time of diagnosis, treatment and recovery for those with cancer. One of the foundation’s first recipients was Becca Solodon, a 16-year old diagnosed with cancer. Becca sat down with NewsChannel 3 to share her inspiring story.

The Golden Ribbon Campaign was launched in September to help raise money and awareness for Teddy Bear. The goal is to raise $200,000 by the October 31 deadline.

To donate, call 805.962.7466, or simply make a donation on your cellphone by texting the word TEDDY in message to 51400. Visit http://teddybearcancerfoundation.org/

NewsChannel 3 Anchor Shirin Rajaee reports.