Lori Leyba-Kramer

Lori has been mentoring nine-year-old Gabriel through the Chemo Pal Program at the Children's Cancer Association (CCA).

As a Pediatric Chemo Pal Mentor, Lori helps children and teens break through the isolation, chaos and loneliness of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. This volunteer program's purpose is to provide a supportive relationship, ensuring that each child maintains self-esteem and confidence throughout the emotionally isolating and physically difficult cancer treatment.

She also provides support and guidance through dependable visits in the midst of the battle against cancer. She participates in visits at the hospitals, clinic, and in the home in order to play games, take walks, read, do art projects or share hobbies with the child or teen that she has been placed with.

Lori and Gabriel have many hobbies and activities that they do together, including movies, going to the Children's Theater, and bowling. Gabriel has taught Lori how to play chess, and Lori has taught Gabriel how to play poker. When Lori visits, it gives Gabriel's mom a chance to check emails and return phone calls while Lori and Gabriel play.

Lori has also volunteered through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for children), the Beaverton Arts Commission, on the Board for the Washington County Arts, Culture, and Humanities, along with various other opportunities.