CCA Blog

Every day we have the special honor of meeting amazing kids and families, during some of the most intense times of their lives. Every day I approach this work asking myself what can we do to bring more joy to the kids and families that we at CCA are privileged to serve? We have learned a lot over 14 years of service.  We have learned that, sometimes, bringing joy is as simple as sharing a hug, playing a game, singing a song, or offering the hand of friendship. A Chemo Pal walking into a pediatric oncology treatment room wearing a purple CCA shirt, carrying a bag filled with crafts and toys, brings the joy of friendship. A Chemo Pal helps families break through the fear and pain brought on by a child’s cancer diagnosis. Here’s what a mom, whose daughter has cancer, has to say about her daughter’s Chemo Pal (excerpt from a letter she wrote to Kacy Dressler, our Chemo Pal Match Manager):

 I wanted to let you know that Nicole has been a wonderful Chemo Pal to Lily.  They play games and do crafts, and Nicole makes Lily feel special in a way that I’m not sure anyone else can.  Lily truly loves her and knows that Nicole is here for her.  Nicole has created such a great impression on us all and my girls want to be Chemo Pals just like her when they get bigger.  Thank you so much for telling us about this program.  It is truly a gift to our family—to Lily.  And we have such respect and appreciation for all the time Nicole volunteers to be with our little girl.

 You came in right after we learned about Lily’s tumor.  Our minds were spinning, trying to take it all in, and you and Nicole have really helped us settle into a routine and given us support.

 Thank you for being that special hand of friendship.

 Warmly,

 Mary Turina, CCA's President & COO