First Coast Beauty Queen Helps Comfort Sick Children

It just so happens, that her title as Miss Heart of Suwannee River Valley has given her special access to hospitals like Shands Jacksonville and Wolfson Children's Hospital.

I asked to come along, as she spent time with children battling debilitating and deadly diseases.

I watched as small, timid eyes just lit up when Rachel walked in the room, and even gave the kids gifts!

Rachel has named her calling Miracle Beaders.

She has recruited caring citizens across the First Coast to make get-well cards for bed-ridden children.

Through Miracle Beaders, Rachel also makes and distributes small bracelets made of beads.

One is given to a child receiving medical treatment.

The other is worn by whomever made the get-well card which that child now holds.

"It gives the kids a bond between a person from the outside of a hospital," Rachel explains, "and it shows the kids someone cares."

Rachel truly understands what these children are going through.

She watched the outpouring of support from friends and family as her own brother was hospitalized as a young child.

"It really meant a lot to my brother," Rachel recalls.

Watch my video news story on this web page, to learn more about Rachel's motivation to create Miracle Beaders.

The funds Rachel raises through Miracle Beaders -- $5.00 at a time -- is donated to the Children's Miracle Network and helps buy medical equipment and child life activities.

"It's priceless, is the beest way to put it," explains Children's Miracle Network Nicole Lowe. "Rachel is truly part of the Miracle Network in our eyes."

Now, Rachel says her goal is to visit children in every hospital nationwide, connected to the Children's Miracle Network.

She's well on her way.

If you'd like more inforation about Miracle Beaders, CLICK HERE to email Rachel and the organization.

Know someone like Rachel who's doing what they can to better the lives of those in our community?