Tim Egan, a dedicated volunteer delivered art materials to Novak on behalf of he Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope (AAFH) on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Novak is a high school student and patient receiving cancer treatment. Tim drove to Novak’s home in Morton Grove, Illinois where he met him and his mom. This valentine’s day was special to Novak as he received his art materials from Alyssa’s foundation.
Novak heard about the AAFH gift program through our friend Willow who works as an art therapist at Lurie’s. Willow was able to help develop Novak’s interest in art and watch it blossom during his time being treated for cancer.
We remember how important the art and music therapists were to our own daughter Alyssa when she was being treated throughout her cancer journey. Young people need to stay hopeful while undergoing treatment for life-threatening illnesses. Art and music therapies are especially important for youth between the ages of 10-21 since they are no longer children and not yet full-grown adults.
It is for this reason that we created the foundation in Alyssa’s memory so that other young people might also be inspired. We are grateful to carry on Alyssa’s legacy in this way.
