Inspired by Henry: My Journey with Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation

It is easy to help out an organization like Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation when it means supporting the recovery of a little one as adorable as Henry!

By Taylor Fuller

As a proud member of the Board of Directors for Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF), I am deeply committed to our mission of advocating for families in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties who have a child with cancer. TBCF’s work is vital in providing essential financial, educational, and emotional support to these families during what is often the most challenging time in their lives.

My connection to TBCF is intensely personal. I joined the board because of my close relationship with the Miller family, who faced an unimaginable challenge when their son, Henry, was diagnosed with leukemia in 2018. Andrew Miller and I went to law school together, and our friendship has only deepened over the years. I had the privilege of standing by his family through Henry’s difficult journey, witnessing firsthand the strength, courage, and love that defined their fight against this devastating illness.

I have many vivid memories from those challenging days—like watching the World Series together in Henry’s hospital room, bringing meals to the family, and offering support wherever I could during their time at Cottage Hospital. Whether it was sitting with Andrew and Giana during long, anxious nights or simply being present to listen, those moments reinforced my understanding of how crucial a strong support network is for families facing pediatric cancer.

Today, I am overjoyed to share that Henry is a healthy and active 10-year-old boy. His recovery is a testament to the power of hope, the advancements in medical care, and the unwavering support provided by organizations like TBCF. It is families like the Millers who inspire me to remain dedicated to TBCF’s mission, ensuring that other families facing similar challenges receive the comprehensive care and support they need.

I am also proud to share that Andrew has since become a successful estate planning attorney with Miller & Berryhill, an estate planning firm located in Montecito’s upper village. Ironically, Miller & Berryhill are our neighbors, as Herring Imming, LLP is also based in the upper village. This close proximity has further strengthened our bond, both professionally and personally, and reinforces the collaborative spirit that makes our community so special.

This year, TBCF’s flagship fundraising event, the Golden Gala, marks the culmination of September’s Gold Ribbon Campaign in recognition of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The Golden Gala was held on September 25th at the stunning Tuscan Hills Estate and is an evening of celebration, reflection, and community. This event is not only an opportunity to honor the remarkable families we serve, but also a chance for our supporters to come together in solidarity for a cause that touches so many lives.

Herring Imming, LLP, was a proud sponsor of this year’s Golden Gala. Herring Imming, LLP is committed to supporting organizations that make a tangible difference in our community, and TBCF’s work aligns perfectly with our values. We are honored to contribute to an event that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the families TBCF serves.

Supporting TBCF and participating in the Golden Gala is more than just a professional commitment for me—it’s deeply personal. The Miller family’s journey has left an indelible mark on my life, and I am honored to continue supporting families like theirs. I always look forward to sharing this special evening with our community.

For more information about the work of the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, visit www.teddybearcancerfoundation.org.

Taylor Fuller is a family law attorney with Herring Imming, LLP, and a Director on the Boards of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, Santa Barbara Women Lawyers, the Santa Barbara County Bar Association, and the Santa Barbara County Unity Bar. A Santa Barbara County native, she is dedicated to serving her community through both her legal practice and nonprofit leadership.

A Night of Unity and Generosity: Supporting First Responders through One805

Herring Imming’s commitment to community extends beyond the courtroom. Since local non-profit One805’s inception, we have substantially contributed to and otherwise supported it.

One805 arose in response to the Montecito and Santa Barbara disasters on January 9, 2018. The Montecito Mudflow claimed the lives of 23 of our community members. Hundreds of homes were destroyed. Recognizing our First Responders needed help and support, our community came together to say “thank you” – and hasn’t stopped since.

Today, One805 is a permanent 501(c)(3) corporation, raising funds for all three First Responder groups: fire, police, and sheriff. It purchases equipment, provides wellness counseling, and takes care of those who care for us. Over $6,000,000 has been raised to date.

We recently co-sponsored One805’s annual fundraiser. This extraordinary event — hosted by Kevin Costner at his oceanside estate in Summerland – featured Trisha Yearwood, Good Charlotte, and Donavon Frankenrieiter, among other stars. We HI attorneys and staff found ourselves in good company, including Oprah Winfrey, Maria Shriver, and Orlando Bloom.

HI will continue our strong support for One805 — helping to create positive change in Montecito, Santa Barbara, and beyond.

Herring Imming Welcomes Our Fifth Attorney, Susan Rosen

          HI is pleased to welcome Susan Rosen as our fifth family law attorney.

          Susan grew up in Detroit, Michigan. She attended Wayne State University, where she obtained a Bachelors Degree in education and a Masters Degree in Library Science. She subsequently attended Washington University [St. Louis] as a Doctoral Candidate in Educational Psychology. She achieved her law degree from the University of San Diego.   

          She has practiced family law for over 20 years. She was a Certified Specialist in California until moving to Nashville in 1995. There, she practiced for the State Attorney General in the appellate division [criminal]. Moving to St. Louis in 1998, Susan served as the associate director of the Anti-Defamation League before returning to California.

          Susan volunteered as a respected mediator and judge pro tem for the San Diego County Superior Court. Our San Diego colleagues know her well.

          She has been a proud member of the National Commission of the Anti-Defamation League and its National Civil Rights Committee. She volunteered as a member of the advisory legal committee for San Diego County’s Jewish Family Services. There, she focused on domestic violence and divorce actions.

          Susan works for HI from her San Diego home, where she also enjoys family – especially her grandchildren! HI is pleased to enable her “remote” work flexibility, allowing our select clients to benefit from her seasoned expertise.

Herring Imming is Hiring!

Our busy law firm is looking for an attorney who has experience in Family Law or Civil Litigation. Our multi-office team of top attorneys currently serves the counties of Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Luis Obispo — and beyond. We are looking for a “hit the ground running” type person. We provide generous compensation and benefits. Please send your CV and cover letter to Legal Administrator, Kristiné Kirschke, at [email protected].