Donor Spotlight: Miles Anliker

Miles Anliker, a 9-year-old boy from Urbandale, Iowa, knows that philanthropy can start at any age.

For his birthday this year, Miles decided that instead of presents, he wanted to make a donation to the William J. Semon Family Resource Fund. This fund supports MercyOne Des Moines Cancer Center patients with the additional financial burdens and added expenses of cancer treatments, co-pays, travel, medication and nutritional supplements.

“I know there are a lot of people out there who have cancer,” said Miles. “I decided to ask my friends to bring donations for cancer patients so they can have a better life after they recover from cancer.”

The Anliker family first heard of the Semon Fund from their neighbor and founder of the fund, Linda Semon.

“When people are dealing with cancer, I think that we are so focused on their overall health that we don’t realize all that goes into actually getting treatment,” said Alyse Anliker, Miles’ mother. “What’s important for others to realize is that this fund has the ability to help with a meal, hotel room, gas or just the basic necessities for patients to be able to continue to get the care that they need.”

Miles knows that his donation is making a direct impact in the lives of cancer patients.

“It makes me feel good because I know I am helping out a person that doesn’t have very much anymore because of cancer,” said Miles.

“This fund really allows patients to focus on getting better instead of worrying about everything it takes just to get treatment,” said Alyse.

Miles and his family hope others will consider giving to the Semon Fund.

“We have a lot of stuff and we have a lot of stuff gifted to us and some cancer patients really don’t have much,” said Miles. “So maybe make their day a little brighter by making a gift and helping a cancer patient.”

For Giving Tuesday 2021, we have a goal of raising $10,000 in support of the Semon Fund. Every gift made will be doubled! Founder of the fund, Linda Semon, is generously matching all gifts made before and on Giving Tuesday. Join us in making a difference in the lives of MercyOne Des Moines Cancer Center patients.

“I hope current patients get well soon and know that God and I will always be there for them,” said Miles.

For more information on how you can support MercyOne Des Moines Cancer Center, please contact MercyOne Des Moines Foundation Senior Director of Development Joan Bindel at 515-643-8020 or JBindel@mercydesmoines.org.