My name is Rebecca Weiss, I'm 18 years old, born and raised in South Florida.

My story started on February 20th, 2015 I was admitted into the hospital with a very serious, life threatening illness.

It's been a long battle, but one that I have overcome.

Now, 20 months later, I'm home, happier, healthier, and stronger than ever before.  After a year of catch up, I am almost done with high school, pulling an almost 4.0 average, and looking forward to going to UF and entering their veterinary program!


Last year, I was so blessed to have been released right before the holidays that I decided to dedicate my time going forward to giving back.

During my journey, I met so many children and families in need. Families who because of the high cost of hospital and medical care that insurance didn't cover, were forced into a very bad financial situation.

I decided to spread my happiness out into the world by collecting money to give hospitalized children in need a chance to be happy too. With the money I raised, I was able to buy presents and personally hand them out to children in hospitals who were not able to be home for the holidays. We had the help of a very special man, Jim Nolan of Delray Beach who as he's done so many times before, played the role of Santa for these amazing kids!


For my 2nd year, I will be working with our regional hospitals such as "Palm Beach Children's Hospital" to create a special day again, where we bring in Santa to meet with and give the gifts to the children.

Also, we will use a portion of the funds for families to fly in siblings or parents who can't afford to travel to be with their sick children / brothers / sisters.

Everyone should be with their family during the holidays.

I am so blessed to be alive and healthy and with family this year, help me help those ill children who need a little special love and attention this year!

With much love and gratitude,


Rebecca Weiss