Glendale Fire collecting comfort for children

PHOENIX — Glendale firefighters have teamed up with non-profit organization Jenny’s Strength to collect pillow pets for children whose parents have been diagnosed with a deadly disease.

“They take care of the children of parents that may have brain tumors, brain cancer, so when parents are getting treatment, the children aren’t left behind and getting something to make them feel better,” said Glendale firefighter Jeremy Krossman.

May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month and the fire department will be collecting new Pillow Pets all month. These stuffed animals will be presented to affected children, along with emotional support and resources.

Pillow Pet donations can be made at any Glendale fire station.

Jenny’s Strength was started by her sister and a friend, Pam Szukala, after Jenny died from glioblastoma multiforme. That is the most common and aggressive cancerous brain tumor. The 36-year-old was a mom of two young girls.

“Jenny was known for her love of children, not only the babies at church, but her daughters, nieces and nephews and her passion was gift-giving,” said Szukala.

For more information regarding Jenny’s Strength, go to jennysstrength.org