Explore the NW: paying it forward
As we decorate the house, bake cookies and read books in front of the fire, I can't help but reflect on how different the holidays were for us a few years ago. My family spent the holidays in and out of the hospital as our two year old daughter battled cancer. While nothing can compare with the simple pleasures of being home, there were several organizations that brought the holiday spirit into the hospital.
- Mission - A national non-profit organization bringing information, advocacy and support to enrich the quality of life for seriously ill children and their families.
- What they did for us - CCA's Music Rx program is near and dear to our hearts. As a music therapist sang and played guitar, our daughter would rattle an egg shaker and for a moment the beeps of the machines that surrounded her would be drowned out by their song.
- How to help - Donate money here. Donate toys and gifts to the Chemo Pal program.
- Mission - A national non-profit organization with local affiliates across the United States. Candlelighters provides support, education, advocacy and hope to all children and their families impacted by childhood cancer.
- What they did for us - Take it from me, hospital cafeteria food is not good. Candlelighters catered meals every other week, including a complete turkey dinner for Thanksgiving! They would serve the meals in the playroom on the oncology floor so that all the families could gather as a community while they ate.
- How to help - Donate money here. Contact your local affiliate for more ideas on how to get involved in your community.
I cannot repay these organizations for the lifelong memories they helped create during that trying time. But I can support them as they continue to do their amazing work for other families. Won't you join me? Happy holidays everyone.
