Support New Pediatric Cancer Families

Once upon a time, not so long ago, we became members of a club that nobody ever wants to belong to — the pediatric cancer club. If you’re not a member (and I hope you’re not), what you may not know is that from the minute your child is diagnosed, there are more veteran members who somehow magically appear — to offer support, to serve as resources, to check in on you. With all they are already carrying, these other parents don’t hesitate to reach out because they understand all too well how your world has just completely imploded. And chances are, they are paying it forward because they experienced similar support when they were the newbie.

Because once you’re in this club, whenever you are able to support other members — especially the newcomers and those in your community — you just do. I don’t make the rules. It’s how it works. So now you know.

For my son (who is 3 years cancer-free) and me, one of the hardest times during the early days of treatment was a long, unexpected, in-patient stay. Another was a long inpatient stay after a surgical infection. And our stays were nothing compared to so many other kids and families!

So this is where you come in! We are raising funds to be able to provide new pediatric cancer club members with resources to make unexpected or lengthy hospital stays more bearable and even increase the potential for some joyful memories.

Through our contacts at Mott’s and our 7E Crew FB Group, we will surprise newcomer families with gift cards for Target and food delivery. Sometimes new fun PJs, a card game, and a non-hospital dinner is just what the doctor ordered. A wise friend and veteran club member once told me that these little things can help turn the toughest days into something happier — these are childhood memories you’re making after all. And she was right.

And of course, we will continue to do our part as veteran members to reach out to those whose world has just spun off its axis — to offer support, to check in on them, and to make sure they have what they need to make happy childhood memories whenever and wherever necessary.

Thanks so much for your support.