125: Supporting Families Through Childhood Cancer

A cancer diagnosis changes everything—families are thrown into a whirlwind of medical decisions, financial strain, and emotional turmoil. But they don't have to go through it alone. In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada sits down with Alec Lloyd, Director of Development for B.I.G. Love Cancer Care. They discuss how this nonprofit is meeting the most urgent physical and financial needs of pediatric oncology and hematology patients.

B.I.G. Love was founded in 2007 by a mother who experienced firsthand the challenges of having a child with cancer. Her daughter, Brooke, was diagnosed at just three years old, and despite her own battle, she had one wish—to help other kids in the hospital. Inspired by Brooke's incredible generosity, her family created B.I.G. Love Cancer Care, which now serves over 100,000 children and families each year across 10 hospitals in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and Temple, Texas.

Alec breaks down the many ways B.I.G. Love supports families during and after treatment, including:

·         New Diagnosis Baskets – Providing families with essential toiletries, comfort items, and hospital supplies when they first hear the devastating news.

·         Weekly Wishlist – Parents and caregivers can request groceries, toys, or personal care items, delivered directly to hospital rooms.

·         Catered Meals & Snack Shacks – Making sure families aren't left hungry while staying with their children in the hospital.

·         Financial Assistance & Housing Support – Helping families cover rent, utilities, hotel stays, and other urgent expenses.

Beyond the logistics, Alec sheds light on the emotional toll of childhood cancer—the fear, uncertainty, and stress that weigh on parents, siblings, and caregivers. With B.I.G. Love, families find more than just material support—they find a community that walks with them through every step of their journey, from diagnosis to survivorship and beyond.

If you've ever wondered how you can help, this episode will show you the many ways to give back—whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word about this life-changing organization.

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