My name is Ornela Bizhyti.  I am organizing this fundraiser to support the Pediatric Department of Oncology and Hematology of Mother Teresa Hospital in Tirana, Albania.  This is the country's only medical unit for the treatment of children with serious cancerous diseases.  The department consists of fourteen rooms, which are occupied by  the patients and their caretakers.  Due to the seriousness of the cases, the children here are often admitted for extended weeks or months, and with the exception of the social worker's office (which also serves as the only play area), these rooms become their only living spaces.

Due to the lack of state funds in Albania, the department relies heavily on private donations to improve the care and conditions under which the children are treated.
After contacting the hospital's personnel, we were provided with a list of needs essential to the well being and accommodation of the children.  In summation, the patients' rooms are in need of refrigerators, tv cable service, showers, window blinds, a washer, a vacuum, as well as various educational and entertaining supplies.

I was motivated to start this fundraiser for many reasons: 

My sister in law is one of the doctors at this department.  For over twenty years, along with her colleagues, she has been treating numerous children from all over Albania and Kosovo.  As a member of her family, I have had the opportunity to be close to the stories, difficulties, sufferings, emotions,  and insecurities that each child and family goes through. During my numerous visits on site, I would get a close look at their situation.  It would break my heart and the only thing I could do is pray to God to save them.

On May, 2010, my own nephew was diagnosed with bone cancer; a severe type of sarcoma.   He was only 13 but he was already turning into a great young man, while being a wonderful son, brother, friend.  Soccer was his biggest dream and he was talented in it as well.  He had to give that up during his last months which he spent lying in bed, paralyzed.  So selfless was our angel that he would tell my sister: "Okay, mom, I am going through this but I don't want this to happen to anyone else.  I want everyone else to be safe."

Several years ago, my family and I moved to the United States.  During these years, we have been introduced to various characteristics of the American culture and mentality.  One of the aspects that has touched me most deeply is how involved individuals and families are with their community.  Regardless of all the challenges they may face daily, they are more than happy to sacrifice for someone in need.  My family and I admire this approach and we also try to contribute to our community. 

Always carrying in my mind and heart this hospital, its children, and the memory of my beloved nephew, I found myself in the position where I could give back to those most in need.  However, only my contribution would be minimal compared to their numerous needs.  Other friends and fellow Albanians have already embraced this initiative.  In order for us to be able to better these children's isolated lives as much as possible, we are asking for the support of anyone who believes that all children deserve basic comfort and support in a stressful time, regardless of what part of the world they are in.  Thank you in advance for your time and contribution.