What began as one mother’s response to the gap in support after leaving the hospital has grown into a mission-driven organization providing advocacy, resources and hands-on services directly in the home. From everyday needs like meals and housekeeping to emotional support and community connection, Rays for Rare ensures families are not facing this journey alone, delivering meaningful care where it matters most.

There are more than 5,000 medically fragile children in the region, a number that continues to grow alongside the community and advancements in medicine. Rays for Rare has become a strong advocate for these families, serving on an advisory council at the children’s hospital to help bring pediatric palliative care to the Valley while also collaborating with national leaders to drive broader progress. As the organization has evolved, it has embraced a name that reflects the children it serves—those facing rare diseases, pediatric cancer, or life-altering injuries—recognizing that each child’s journey is unique and that every one of them is truly rare.