Cheyanna’s Champions 4 Children (CC4C)
Sep 05, 2024
Danelle Kemp and Monica Gelinas
Cheyanna’s Champions 4 Children (CC4C)

Our Story
A sick child, with an unknown disorder.

In 2006, my infant daughter, Cheyanna, became ill and not a single doctor or specialist could diagnose her disorder. My family and I felt isolated, desperate and afraid. At the time, there was no community support for us. Not a single doctor, family member or friend could understand our situation. Eventually, we learned she had a very rare condition that had no treatment or cure. However, we continued to seek therapies and treatments.

Through perseverance, we found healing  

Eventually we did discover a solution and received a miracle healing. In 2012, motivated by this frightening and frustrating experience, I started Cheyanna’s Champions 4 Children (CC4C) in the hopes that more children with undiagnosed or rare conditions would have an opportunity to heal. My journey taught me that there are countless children like Cheyanna who need a Champion to fight for them. At that time, CC4C was the only non-profit of its kind in the state. 

Thousands of children have been helped.

-Talaya Frazier, founder

Danelle:

My path was unclear but my determination was unwavering. Today, with the help of a large team of volunteers, supporters, and staff, CC4C’s mission has enhanced the lives of thousands of children battling rare and undiagnosed medical conditions in Texas. We provide children and families access to mental health and wellness programs, offer financial assistance, and give them access to events and experiences that otherwise would be impossible.

Together, we can Champion these children and their families out of the darkness of isolation and into the light.

Danelle is mission-driven and has 5 years of experience as a development professional in nonprofit healthcare. Joining CC4C has allowed her to combine her skills with her passion - to care for others. She is deeply connected to CC4C’s mission because she has walked alongside her sister and niece as they navigate the rare journey. Danelle is a mother to two incredible girls and two incredibly sweet dogs. She and her husband love to enjoy the outdoors with friends and be of service to others.

Monica:

Monica earned a B.S. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in Learning Disabilities from the University of New Mexico. She is a certified Mindful SelfCompassion Trained Teacher from the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion, Practitioner in Applied Positive Psychology from the Flourishing Center in NYC, and certified in Life Coaching from the Coach Training Alliance. Monica is also the founder of New Season New Vision Life Coaching and author of Savor the Day, an interactive journal to inspire gratitude. She has experience working with people navigating life transitions and coaching them to move forward and embrace a flourishing life. Monica is a mother of quadruplets and this unique perspective and heart for children inspires her work every day.