SmileStory® | Kindness That Carries You Forward

SmileStory® brings comfort and joy to cancer patients and caregivers in Northeastern Pennsylvania—one smile at a time.

SmileStory® was born from a simple yet powerful belief shared by founders Ashley Javitz and Chris Bohinski: even in life’s greatest challenges, kindness can be a source of light and hope. This belief is deeply personal. Chris served as the primary caregiver to his mother during her battle with uterine cancer, following in the compassionate footsteps of his father—a devoted physician who also faced brain cancer with courage and grace. Ashley is a dedicated caregiver to her beloved Nana, whose quiet strength and enduring love continue to shape the organization’s commitment to compassion and care.

Through these personal experiences, they learned something profound: while medicine treats the body, it is often small acts of love that heal the heart. SmileStory® exists to share that love with others—offering comfort, relief, and support to cancer patients and caregivers so they feel seen, supported, and uplifted during one of life’s most difficult journeys.

Our Mission in Action

We help ease everyday burdens of cancer patients—through deliveries of favorite meals and help with transportation or household needs—so families can focus on healing, resting, and being together. We also curate thoughtful care packages, encouraging notes, and meaningful experiences for cancer patients.

We recognize the vital role caregivers play in a cancer patient’s journey. By offering self-care opportunities and moments of appreciation, we help caregivers feel valued and supported as they care for the people they love.

By partnering with hospitals, social workers, and community organizations across Northeastern Pennsylvania, SmileStory® ensures that no one has to face cancer alone. Your support helps spread hope, kindness, and small acts of love that make a lasting difference.

Examples of Our Work

A care package was delivered to support a local family facing overwhelming challenges after a father recently became paralyzed and began battling several serious health issues. As an only child helps care for both parents—while the mother is unable to drive and resources are limited—the family has been navigating an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. The delivery included a hand-crocheted prayer shawl and cross for comfort, adult coloring books with supplies to provide a peaceful outlet, and a $200 Amazon gift card to help ease everyday financial strain. Acts of generosity like this provide meaningful relief and hope, reminding families in crisis that their community cares and that every donation can truly make a difference.

A care package was delivered to support a woman undergoing radiology treatments for breast cancer that has recently spread, offering comfort during a very challenging time. This delivery was thanks to the generosity of community partners and donors who make these acts of support possible. The package included a curated “Feel Better Kit,” a hand-crocheted prayer shawl and cross from a Luzerne County knitting group, and creative activities like ornament painting and coloring supplies from The Peaceful Potter and Crayola. Together, these community partnerships brought comfort, creativity, and encouragement during her cancer journey.