Sub for Santa: Mother’s cancer battle leaves Christmas in doubt
Courtesy United Way of Utah County
Editor’s note: All United Way’s Sub for Santa participants’ names have been changed. To help a family like this one, visit https://subforsanta.org or text or call the Sub for Santa hotline at 801-356-6300
Catherine’s cancer has taken a heavy toll on her and her family.
Currently going through chemotherapy, she spends a lot of time in the hospital and is unable to properly take care of her three children, who are living at a friend’s house.
Though Catherine’s children are supportive, she fears they are not receiving a proper childhood.
“They spend more time in a hospital room with me for my treatments than they do playing outside,” Catherine said.
To add to the stress, Catherine is deeply in debt due to her treatment and is unable to work a full-time job.
United Way of Utah County’s Sub for Santa program wants to step in and ensure that families and children like Catherine’s can enjoy Christmas this season.
Lily needs a winter jacket, leggings and winter boots to keep her warm this Christmas season, and hopes Santa Claus brings her stuffed animals and knitting supplies.
Mary also needs a warm coat and boots and has a princess doll and a Barbie on her wish list, while Jackson needs a similar set of winter clothes and is requesting Pokémon and Spider-Man toys.
United Way of Utah County invites all to get involved this holiday season. If you would like to be part of this annual holiday initiative and help bring the Christmas spirit to those in need, visit subforsanta.org.


