Nine-year-old Natalia Ricabal spends a lot of time at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa being treated for bone cancer.

Natalia was diagnosed a year ago and just finished her last round of chemotherapy.

To help families through cancer diagnosis and treatment, the hospital offers a Pediatric Psychosocial Oncology Patient Navigator Program.

The program gives families access to a variety of financial, social welfare and educational resources. Natalia’s mother, Amy said the program is a blessing.

"You really shouldn’t have to worry about certain things when you’re going through this and you’re focusing on your child and saving their life,” said Ricabal. “They’re helping you in the background … moving things around so that things are easier for you and you can get through."

Now, thanks to the Hyundai Hope on Wheels “Young Investigators Clinical Award,” the program is expanding.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels awarded $75,000 to Dr. Erin Cockrell to help fund the program.

"We’re going to add an outpatient licensed social worker," said Dr. Cockrell. "Our whole goal is to try to get the family and the child back to as normal of a life as possible and if we have all that support there for them, then they can try to do that."

Hyundai Hope on Wheels contributes to research and clinical programs to help improve the lives of young cancer patients.

Patients pick a paint color and put their handprints on the organization’s official car. The handprints represent hope. Each handprint has its own story and its own message.

Natalia said she hopes her handprint inspires others.

"To be brave and strong no matter what," she said.