Compassion in Action
Every family deserves the peace to focus on recovery, not bills.
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it changes everything. Families are thrust into a whirlwind of appointments, treatments, and emotional turmoil—faced with overwhelming financial burdens that insurance doesn’t cover. Life as they know it is turned upside down, forcing parents to make impossible choices between work, care, and mounting expenses.
At My Family Matters Foundation, we stand with these families during their darkest hours, ensuring they never face this fight alone. By addressing the financial strain that goes beyond medical bills—such as travel, lodging, and daily living costs—we help families focus on what truly matters: their child’s recovery and well-being.
Our Exclusive Foundation Hospital Recipient
My Family Matters Foundation together with Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital Foundation provides financial assistance for families with children fighting cancer.
OUR MISSION
We are dedicated to easing the emotional and financial burden of families navigating the hardships of childhood cancer. By covering non-medical expenses that insurance doesn’t, we empower families to focus on healing and hope.
No child should miss treatment due to lack of transportation.
No family should sleep in their car after traveling for care.
No parent should have to choose between paying bills and supporting their child’s health.
Through our efforts, we alleviate financial stress, offering families hope, relief, and the ability to concentrate on their child’s healing.
what we do
Through the generosity of donors and the compassion of our community, we:
Provide financial assistance for critical needs such as travel, lodging, and daily living expenses.
Ensure no family has to choose between keeping the lights on and staying by their child’s side.
Offer support services that bring relief, comfort, and stability to families facing the unthinkable.
Our support helps families stay together and strong, ensuring they have the resources they need during their most challenging times.
OUR STORY
Founded by national radio personality Doc Reno, who faced his own battle with cancer, My Family Matters Foundation was born from firsthand experience. Reno’s journey inspired him to bridge the gap for families struggling to make ends meet while caring for their sick children.
A survivor and community advocate, Doc Reno has dedicated his life to ensuring families battling cancer never feel alone. His vision continues to drive our mission of hope and compassion.
Originally from Cleveland, Doc Reno brought his infectious energy and passion for helping others to South Florida in 2002. Through his work with iHeartRadio and various charities, including Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, he has dedicated his life to making a difference.
join us in this cause
Every moment counts in the fight against childhood cancer. From heartfelt donations to volunteer efforts, every contribution makes an impact. Together, we can bring light to families navigating their darkest days.
Your support means:
- A safe place to stay near treatment centers.
- Meals for families juggling long hospital visits.
- Relief from the financial stress of everyday living expenses.
Join us in bringing relief and hope to families in need. Together, we can make a difference—one family at a time.
did you know?
Understanding Non-Medical Financial Burdens
TRANSPORTATION COSTS
FACT: Families often travel long distances to specialized cancer treatmentcenters, incurring significant costs on fuel, public transport, andsometimes airfare.
Impact: These necessary travel expenses are rarely covered byinsurance, increasing the financial strain on families.
lodging expenses
FACT: Extended stays near treatment facilities are common, especiallywhen children receive treatment far from home.
INSIGHT: Costs for hotels or other accommodations can quickly add up andare typically not covered by health insurance.
LOST INCOME
FACT: Many parents reduce their working hours or leave their jobs to carefor their child, leading to a loss of income.
Reality: The reduction or loss of income is a significant financial hit forfamilies, complicating their ability to manage everyday expenses andmedical costs.
CHILDCARE FOR SIBLINGS
FACT: Childcare for siblings becomes a necessity when parents are awayat the hospital, adding another layer of expense.
Challenge: These additional childcare costs can be burdensome and arenot considered medical expenses by insurance companies.
HOME MODIFICATIONS
FACT: Certain cancers require modifications to the hometo accommodatewheelchairs, special sanitary needs, or to create a sterileenvironment.
Consideration: The cost of these modifications adds to the financialchallenges faced by families and is not covered by standard healthinsurance policies.
SPECIAL DIETS & NUTRITIONAL NEEDS
FACT: Cancer treatment often requires special diets or nutritionalsupplements to ensure the child’s body can handle the treatmentsand recover.
Understanding: These necessary dietary adjustments are additional coststhat health insurance does not cover.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT
FACT: The emotional and psychological impact of cancer treatment on thechild and family members often necessitates professional counseling.
Awareness: Mental health support is essential but can beanotherfinancial burden as ongoing counseling costs are infrequentlycovered by insurance.
EVERYDAY LIVING EXPENSES
FACT: With all focus going towards the child’s health, regular livingexpenses like utilities, groceries, and more continue to accumulate.
Hardship: The continuous nature of these costs can create significantfinancial distress, compounded by other cancer-related expenses.