Stories of Hope

Joey Smitherman

Joey traveled to the Philippines with a heartfelt desire to make his time meaningful. During his two weeks of volunteering at Everlasting Hope, he fully immersed himself in the lives of the children, families, and staff, building meaningful connections through his genuine care and intentionality. His kind heart and approachable nature made everyone feel valued and seen, and his enthusiasm for serving others brought light and joy to the Everlasting Hope community.

Reflecting on his time at Everlasting Hope, Joey shares how the experience changed his perspective and deepened his understanding of living with purpose and compassion.

A Personal Reflection by Joey

“How a story begins often starts with a single act of compassion, but sometimes, the impact of that act is so profound it feels like a miracle in motion. That’s what Everlasting Hope represents to me—not just an organization, but a sanctuary for those battered by life’s storms. It’s a beacon of light that guides them, step by step, toward something better. Before I walked through the gates of Everlasting Hope, my perspective was clouded by the noise of the world—its endless distractions, trivial worries, and the race to nowhere. But stepping into this space felt like entering another world. A world where healing, love, and hope weren’t just ideals—they were alive, breathing, and tangible. In this place, the petty concerns we all cling to dissolve. What remains is the profound truth of what it means to truly live: making a difference in someone else’s life. Here, the smallest act of kindness grows into something immeasurable. I saw in that team—a small but mighty group of 'Spartans' who give their love so freely, it’s as if their hearts were made to carry the weight of the world. These are not people seeking recognition or reward. They are the hands that hold children in their darkest moments, the arms that embrace parents who feel lost, the voices that whisper, 'You’re not alone.'  It’s not fate. It’s not divine intervention. It’s you. Your will. Your determination. Your humanity. You bring light into the shadows and remind us all that even in the bleakest moments, there is hope. And hope isn’t just healing—it’s transformative. What you’ve created here doesn’t just mend broken spirits; it gives them the strength to rise again, to dream again. Words like “extraordinary” or “remarkable” don’t even come close. Your actions are beyond compare—awe-inspiring in a way that language itself struggles to capture. Forgive me if I ramble, but I speak from the heart because this experience has touched me in ways I never imagined. When they handed me those cards—those beautiful, handmade cards—they whispered, “Don’t cry, don’t cry.” I didn’t then, but when I got home, the floodgates opened. And though I love them all equally, it was Isis’s card that broke me. It wasn’t just words on paper—it was a piece of her love. Thank you for being the hands that bring light to the shadows, the arms that offer comfort, and the souls that remind us all what it truly means to care. You’ve shown me that hope is not just an abstract idea—it’s real, and it’s found in people like you.”

A snapshot of Joey’s time in the Philippines

Thank You Joey

Your generous support and the lasting impact you’ve made at Everlasting Hope is immeasurable. Your compassion inspires us all, and we look forward to welcoming you back next year. Together, let’s continue to spread hope and love.

Faces Of Our Mission

Stories of Hope

Each child and family we work with may share a common diagnosis of childhood cancer, yet they all have a unique story to tell.

Story

Joey Smitherman

How a story begins often starts with a single act of compassion, but sometimes, the impact of that act is so profound it feels like a miracle in motion.
Story

Marius Niklaus

Niklaus has always had a deep admiration for the Philippine Military and his greatest wish came true: armored cars, helicopters, meeting the Philippine military, and so much more!
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Maria Fe

Ma Fe's dream is to one day own a little farm that would provide for the needs of her family.
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Gea Kristina

Gea’s Story was Instrumental to Opening our Home Away from Home
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