UPDATE: Houston’s Erika Scott is spearheading her annual Beau Strong Toy Drive to support cancer patients in a heartfelt tribute to her late son, Beau Scott, who tragically passed away at just nine months old. This year’s drive is more urgent than ever, as families face overwhelming financial and emotional burdens during treatment.
Scott, the head softball coach at Aldine MacArthur High School, stepped away from her coaching duties for four months three years ago when Beau was diagnosed with leukemia. “You have to be strong because you have kids depending on you,” she stated, reflecting on her difficult journey during Beau’s treatment at Texas Children’s Hospital.
With the holiday season approaching, Scott understands firsthand the struggles families endure. “The cost of cancer treatment can really burden a family,” she shared. Her experience inspired her to create a toy drive that provides relief and joy to those in similar situations.
The community rallied behind Scott, with support pouring in from her softball team, the entire MacArthur and Aldine ISD community. It’s a true team effort, as Scott noted, “Well, we have a lot of elves around here.”
In a remarkable show of support, former Houston Texans player Mister Alexander and his Missing Element sports performance team contributed to the cause by collecting toys. “Shoutout to our community,” said owner Magic Robinson, emphasizing the collective effort to bring joy to children in need.
The toy donations, filling tables to the brim, were delivered by bus to the front door of Texas Children’s Hospital, showcasing the overwhelming generosity of the community. “I called him Beau the Messenger because he was sent here for a very short time, and he came here on purpose for a purpose,” Scott said, tears in her eyes. “Giving back is really where Beau Strong comes from.”
As the toy drive unfolds, Scott hopes to expand her efforts to support even more families at the hospital, continuing to honor her son’s legacy. “The generosity is oftentimes overwhelming,” she said, highlighting the emotional impact of community support.
With the toy drive in full swing this December, the need for contributions remains urgent. Families battling cancer deserve moments of joy and comfort, and Scott’s mission reflects a powerful commitment to transform her grief into hope for others.
Follow the developments of the Beau Strong Toy Drive and consider contributing to this vital cause, ensuring that no family faces the holidays alone during their fight against cancer.
