Emily's Story

My name is Emily Bourassa, I am 17 years old, and I am from McKinney, Texas. For 4 years I have struggled with chronic and life debilitating illnesses. Currently I am 100% wheelchair and bed bound, and have a feeding tube that feeds me 24 hours since I am not well enough to eat. I cannot move or feel both my legs and my left arm, and cannot hold my neck up at all. I have not been able to attend school for two years because of my life debilitating illnesses. I struggle with a neuromuscular disease and gastroenterology problems. I have had countless amounts of hospital stays, doctors appointments, physical and occupational therapies, and medical procedures.

I have wondered for so long and spent many nights wondering why I have had to endure all these challenges life has thrown at me. Why did God choose me to go through this? Why have my family and I had to deal with so much suffering? 

Then I started listening. I listened to the voice inside my heart: That voice is God. I stopped wondering "why". I stopped feeling sorry for myself. I started thinking how. How am I going to pick myself up, rise up, and make all of this into something great? 

Then somebody sent me a care package. Someone I didn't know who cared enough to tell me they were thinking about me and supporting me. I remember feeling overwhelmed with joy and happiness. It was at that moment I finally realized why I had been put on this journey. 

I have been called to help others. Others suffering with chronic illnesses, diseases, sicknesses. Others who are struggling. I want to spread that same joy and happiness I felt when I got that box with others like me. In the midst of my illnesses, this project allows me to heal others and myself at the same time. 

I am more than thrilled to announce that I have started "Emily's Peaceful Boxes", where I will be sending special care packages to children, teens, and adults all over the United States who have chronic illnesses!

So far, we have sent out 44 packages, and have over 50 kids who are wishing to receive one.  

These care packages will typically contain items like bath bombs, stuffed animals, coloring books and crayons, stress balls, journals, fuzzy socks, makeup, toys and games, and medical supplies like ice packs, feeding tube stickers, and face masks. 
 
My goal is to be able to give 100 boxes a year to those who are suffering with life changing illnesses and diseases, and to bring peace and a smile to their faces. 

Please consider helping me get to my goal! Any donations are appreciated dearly!

Thank you,

Emily Bourassa