Becky’s Gift Brings Hope and Love to Patients with Cancer During the Holidays

Posted on October 29, 2012

by Kathy Loy

Once you become a parent, you realize it’s a full-time, put-your-kids-first kind of job and most of us would move mountains for our children. However, for those suffering through a cancer diagnosis and treatment – especially during the holiday season – some aspects of parenting can be especially hard. Scripps Ranch residents and friends, Becky Walton and Christie Jackson, have moved mountains to help many San Diegans struggling with this hardship during the holiday season.

Becky’s Gift was started in 2010 with a single goal in mind. “We saw that it is emotionally, physically and financially difficult for families during the holiday season,” said Christie. “We wanted to have the cancer patient focus on their treatment and getting better by having gifts available for their children, to take some of the shopping/financial pressures away from the parent.”

During the first year, Becky’s Gift gathered 500 toys for distribution. Last year the collection increased to 750 toys, and the goal for this holiday season is 1,000 toys for children ages 1-16. “The toys that are most popular are dolls, Barbie’s, books, art supplies, crafts, matchbox cars, Legos, games, sporting equipment, electronic games and items for teenage girls and boys,” explained Christie. Of course, monetary donations are accepted and gift cards are welcomed too.

Becky’s Gift Toy Drive begins October 1 and culminates on December 7, 2012. The gifts will be distributed to Medical and Surgical Oncology Associates of San Diego and to UCSD Moores Cancer Center, where patients going through treatment can select a gift for their loved ones. “We hope local businesses, neighbors, friends and schools will contact us to have a collection box at their house or business or to host a toy drive themselves,” said Christie. To make the donation process easy, anyone wishing to donate a new unwrapped gift or gift card can contact Christie or Becky by email, phone or Facebook and arrangements will be made to collect the gift or let you know of a drop off site.

“We add a bit of warmth to the [doctor’s] offices or a patient’s visit during the holidays,” said Christie. “Going through treatment for cancer is tiring, painful and such a long process. To add a bit of hope, love and warmth to someone’s day is our vision. That’s what makes Becky’s Gift so great. It is a Gift for everyone!”