The Brief
- The family of a 5-year-old leukemia patient launched a book drive at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa.
- Through a social media campaign, they are collecting books for other young patients.
- They have received more than 500 books from donations from friends, family and even strangers.
TAMPA, Fla. – A local family is turning their personal experience into a heartfelt mission after their 5-year-old son, Luke Futch, was diagnosed with leukemia earlier this year.
Through a social media campaign, they are collecting books for other young patients at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa. So far, they’ve already received more than 500 books from donations from friends, family and even strangers.
“A book is not just a book. It’s a bedtime story. It’s a moment of distraction. It’s a moment of peace and comfort,” said Luke’s mom, Elizabeth Futch. “It’s the last thing that a child is thinking about before they go to sleep that night. And when you’re not in your own bed and when you’re not in your home and when you do have to spend weeks on end in the hospital, those little moments can bring so much joy and connection between families.”
For the Futch’s, it’s more than just a book drive; it’s a way to bring joy and hope to young patients and their families. Throughout their journey, they’ve been overwhelmed by the care and support they received at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.…