Laura Gutierrez

Laura Gutierrez has the characteristics that make up a great Chemo Pal for the Children's Cancer Association (CCA).

As a Pediatric Chemo Pal Mentor, Laura strives to ensure that each child she mentors maintains self-esteem and confidence throughout their emotionally isolating and physically difficult cancer treatment. She provides support and guidance through dependable visits in the midst of the lonely battle against cancer by visiting the hospital, clinic and home to play games, take walks, read, do art projects or share hobbies.

Laura has always had a passion for working with children. Her sister died of leukemia, which resulted in Laura wanting to give back to families in the same situation. Laura has been matched as a Chemo Pal four times in the last seven years. With the four different children that she has been matched with, she has played numerous board games, played with Play-Do, done arts and crafts, and gone to birthday parties.

Laura gave five-year-old Lesley a dancing bear that she now takes with her everywhere. Laura feels that the greatest benefit of her time with her Chemo Pal children is that they are given one-on-one attention from someone outside of their family.