Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Miles.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
On December 28, 2001, Leonard John “LJ” Miles IV brightened this world with his birth at Martin Memorial Medical Center in Stuart, FL. LJ came into this world with a torrid of desperate medical needs due to his being born with Spina Bifida and Arnold Chiari Malformation Disorder. He was quickly transferred to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, FL, where he received care for the first year of his life, which included multiple brain decompression surgeries. LJ was then transferred to Boston Children’s Hospital. It was here that he underwent more intensive surgeries for several months, concluding with the placement of a permanent trachea and a G tube, which doctors determined would be best to help prolong LJ’s life moving forward. While living in Florida, LJ also received medical care at the UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL. In 2008, seeking advanced care and a pediatric neurosurgeon specialist, LJ moved to Austin, TX, and was given treatment at the Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas. As LJ’s stepmom, he and I met in April of 2010. Although our time together was short, it was sincerely meaningful. This was not unusual, though, as LJ’s shining presence left a significant impression on everyone who knew him. As LJ quickly realized how important I was to his father, Leonard John “Lenny” Miles III, he immediately engaged me, creating a special connection and building one of the most impactful relationships I have ever experienced. After many years of growing through our grief and coming to terms with the loss of LJ, we found that we were still left with this void in our hearts from the loss of this special child. While seeking ways to fill this void, we reflected on the extraordinary kindness of the special programs that supported us through those extremely trying times. These programs included the Ronald McDonald Charity House of Central Texas located in Austin, where we were made to feel welcome and comfortable during hospital stays as long as 3 months, our experience at Give Kids the World, and the trip of a lifetime made possible by the Make-a-Wish Foundation which gave us unforgettable family time with LJ. With these meaningful reflections, we were inspired to honor LJ’s memory by helping other families struggling through similar circumstances.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The foundation’s road has been fairly smooth. However, our cofounders (Lenny and Marissa- LJ’s father and stepmother) have hit some emotional bumps. Visiting different Ronald McDonald House Charities has brought many painful memories of LJ’s struggle, but they still love what they’re doing with the foundation.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
LJ’s Impact Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to positively impacting families affected by childhood affliction and illness by helping fund various programs that support, educate, raise spirits, foster a sense of community, and help alleviate the pain and fear of prolonged illness. The foundation aims to have a strong effect by aiding these families during their time of need during chronic, serious, or life-threatening illnesses and injuries. In particular, we as a foundation have hosted numerous meals for the families staying at RMHC (Ronald McDonald House Charities), brought toys and activities for the kids, and participated in the “Baking Buddies” program, where we have baked goodies for staff & families. We are incredibly proud of our very own Spider-man, played by cofounder and vice president Lenny Miles, who dresses in an authentic costume, poses for pictures, and provides superhero activities for the kids. We are most proud of the work we’ve accomplished in such a short time – providing meals at various “homestay” facilities nationwide, serving families worldwide, and seeing the joy brought to these families in their time of need. What sets us apart from others is our personal experience and understanding of families dealing with childhood afflictions and illnesses.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The Board Members who have helped since day one. Volunteers who have donated their time and resources. Sponsors who have financially supported us. The 2 medical students who inspired us to build a nonprofit foundation and introduced the idea of having our own Spider-man. And, of course, LJ himself and his impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ljsimpact.com/index.php
- Instagram: @ljsimpact
- Facebook: @ljsimpact
