Imagine for a moment you are new parents. You’ve just spent nine months preparing to welcome your child into the world. You’ve chosen a name, imagined family milestones—first words, first holidays, first steps. The anticipation builds daily.

And then, the moment finally arrives. But what was supposed to be the happiest day of your life takes an unexpected turn. You hear a diagnosis you can barely pronounce—Schizencephaly, a rare congenital brain disorder. You’re told your baby girl will need lifelong care and are even advised to “put her away.”

This is not a fictional account. It’s the real-life story of Mischa Kennedy, the 1985 CHEMPI Theme Child.

Despite the medical outlook, Mischa’s family refused to give up. They were guided to the California-Hawaii Elks Major Project, Inc. (CHEMPI), and everything changed. Through this compassionate network of volunteers and therapists—funded in part by the quirky but powerful Purple Pig Program—Mischa received the support she needed to stay at home and thrive.

With time, effort, and belief, Mischa not only defied the odds—she graduated with a degree in library science and now lives independently in Oregon. Although her journey continues (she’s currently exploring a vagus nerve stimulator to reduce her seizures), her life stands as a testament to what’s possible when people care enough to give.

So why the Purple Pig?

Because it’s more than a fundraiser. It’s a movement. A mission. A promise that no child will be left behind simply because of a disability.

We often hear, “A Coin a Day, So They Can Walk, Talk, See, and Play.” But it’s not just a saying. It’s reality. Every dollar collected in that whimsical piggy bank goes toward therapy, home visits, and support services for children like Mischa—services that are not just helpful, but life-changing.

And while one-time gifts are always appreciated, recurring donations provide stability. They ensure a continuous lifeline to families navigating some of the hardest moments life can deliver. Even $5 a month can accumulate into something powerful when we come together.

Why Recurring Donations Matter

According to The Philanthropy Journal, recurring donors give 42% more annually than one-time donors. And more importantly, they help organizations like CHEMPI plan and deliver consistent, reliable services.

Scientific American also notes that charitable giving triggers the brain’s reward system, boosting happiness and even promoting longevity. Giving isn’t just good for others—it’s good for us.

The Real Impact: Stories Like Mischa’s

Mischa is far from alone. There are thousands of children throughout California and Hawaii who are being supported thanks to Elks members and donors. Each story is unique, yet they all share one thread—hope made possible through generosity.

As Mischa shared recently on Facebook (March 14, 2025):

“I finally might have a solution to help my seizures! We discussed a vagus nerve stimulator… It might not completely eliminate the seizures, but it can significantly reduce them.”

This kind of hope, progress, and determination is what your donation supports. When the world offers limitations, CHEMPI offers possibilities.

So What Can You Do?

1. Become a recurring donor.
   Set up a monthly contribution—no matter the size. You’ll be building a future of hope and stability.
2. Share the story.
   Tell your friends, family, and community about CHEMPI and the incredible miracles made possible by the Purple Pig.
3. Volunteer.
   Join a local Elks Lodge and be part of something bigger than yourself.

In a world that too often says “no,” the Elks and the Purple Pig Fund boldly say “YES”—yes to life, yes to love, yes to limitless potential.

Because Miracles Happen.