Our Story
The Butterfly Box Project founded in 2024 aims to provide kids, teens and young adults with the tools to document their experiences.
OUR CEO's Story
On November 16th, 2017, Brianne was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Leukemia at the age of 17. As a senior in high school, Brianne felt isolated while staying in the hospital for long periods of time. It was the connections with other survivors, her nurses, and community that helped her thrive during the difficult time. Additionally, donations of activity supplies and journals showed Bree the
One particular connection that Bree made during treatment was to her Best Friend Monica Louise Sandoval. Monica was a bright, bubbly, creative, and giving survivor of Acute Undifferentiated Leukemia. Their friendship blossomed through shared experiences, and it was the loss of Monica at the age of 25 in 2021 that inspired Brianne to start this project.
Monica's Memory lives on in the lives of those she impacted, especially other survivors. It is the connection and memories made that inspire the mission of Butterfly Box Project.
Brianne is thankful to the community that supported her through her journey and allow her to make an impact on the journeys of others.
Testimonial
"The Butterfly Box Project means so much to me and my family. While battling chronic illness life gets so isolating. Having the privilege to meet up with Brianne and receive my box was such a special experience. I have been able to use all of the crafts and trinkets during my hospital stays and at home to keep me busy. Truly so thankful!"
Selah, Teen Recipient
"The Butterfly Box Project really puts in so much thought into how they are putting these boxes together. They care about each patient and really understand the moment that they are in. We are thankful for sweet Bree and everything she, and her donors are doing for these beautiful babies.
Jordan, Mom to Recipient Luna
TYPES OF BOXES
CHILD BOX
Being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness as a child is scary and overwhelming. Our butterfly boxes aim to give kids an age-appropriate way to document and process their experiences while also providing play and activities to help them create happy memories. Child Boxes include a kid-friendly instant camera, a journal/diary, comfort items like beanies and blankets, toys and items that match their interests as well as activities that they like to do.
Teen/Young Adult Box
Teens and young adults face unique challenges and gaps in support when dealing with a life-threatening illness. We are committed to creating a box that is uniquely fitted to them and their experiences, providing them with support and priority. These boxes include an instant camera, journal, comfort items like beanies and blankets, items and activities that match their unique interests and hobbies, and scrapbooking supplies to help them document their experiences.
SIBLING BAG
The diagnosed child is not the only one that experiences difficulties and interruptions to their childhood. Siblings have their own experiences and challenges that need to be addressed. It is important that they feel included and supported as well. Sibling bags include a journal/diary, cool pens and stationary, toys and items that match their interests and personalities, and activities to keep them busy during their sibling's treatments.
PARENT BOX
Parents experience immense emotional, financial, and physical challenges when dealing with the life-threatening diagnosis of a child. Our mission is to help parents process the experience and feel supported during difficult times. Parent boxes include a journal, pens, a scrapbook and scrapbooking supplies, stickers relevant to their child and interests, as well as a keepsake with a message of support and hope.
