Category Archives: Families

Acute Myeloid Leukemia- We Never Ever Give Up For Courageous Kids

The Jessie Rees Foundation offers an abundance of resources and support for children fighting acute myeloid leukemia and other childhood cancers. Knowing the many struggles that come along with caring for your child fighting acute myeloid leukemia, our goal is to ensure you have helpful and supportive information at your fingertips so that you can spend less time searching and more time caring for your courageous fighter. Here are some things you might find helpful at negu.org:

1) Meet Jessie, learn about her journey, her mission, her wish and her legacy.

 

2) Visit our NEGU Support Network to locate children’s hospitals, Ronald McDonald Houses and other organizations dedicated to serving children and families fighting cancer.

3) Nominate your courageous fighter for our NEGU Kid of the week. Our NEGU kids are introduced to our facebook fans and are sent LOTS of messages of encouragement and love.

4) Request a JoyJar for your courageous fighter against acute myeloid leukemia. JoyJars are colorful andGifts for Kids Fighting Cancer inspirational jars filled with hospital-approved toys and games that are sent to children fighting cancer around the world (sent at no financial obligation to children fighting cancer).

5) Visit our NEGU Kids website to find fun activities, games and printables for your courageous fighter.

 

6) Request one of our special “I’m a NEGU Kid” t-shirts to help encourage your courageous fighter to Never Ever Give Up!

 

 

 

Dear Parents,

 

I want you to know the Jessie Rees Foundation is here for YOU and your courageous child. Stacey Jessie Rees with her parentsand I know first-hand what it feels like to be told your child has cancer, search for treatments around the world, watch bills pile up, try to manage your other kids, keep your job going, pray for a miracle, try new foods, sit at chemo, wait for radiation to get over, attend MRI …the list goes on.

 

NO child or parent should have to go through what we have, but they do, so we HELP.

 

We hope the Jessie Rees Foundation and the NEGU Family Network can help you. Please visit us at www.families.negu.org.

 

 

 

 

Financial Support Charities- Childhood Cancer

At the Jessie Rees Foundation, we truly believe that we are better together. Together we can provide resources and support to children and families fighting cancer, together we can help bring awareness to pediatric cancer and together we can find a cure. There are some wonderful charities around the country dedicated to serving children with cancer and their families. We have compiled a comprehensive list of charities dedicated to providing financial assistance and/or support to families with a child fighting cancer.

Although the charities listed below are not affiliated with the Jessie Rees Foundation, our hope is that you may find these organizations helpful.

ADDISON JO BLAIR FOUNDATION

270-734-1479
The foundation provides grants to minimize the financial hardship that is directly attributed to the child’s illness.

ANGELS OF HOPE

586- 226-3146
Provides financial assistance to children and those who love and care for them as they battle cancer.

AVA’S GIFT TO JUNE

Helps families who have children fighting cancer by helping pay medical bills, travel expenses, and other costs associated with the treatment of childhood cancer.

B+ ORGANIZATION

302-563-8389
The B+ Foundation is committed to emotionally, and financially assistfamilies of children with cancer. so they can focus on helping their children get well.

BEYOND THE CURE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

314-241-1600
Awards college scholarships to childhood cancer survivors who have demonstrated the ability to overcome the difficult challenges of cancer with determination and motivation.

CANCER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE COALITION

CFAC is a coalition of organizations helping cancer patients manage their financial challenges.

CANCER FUND OF AMERICA

1-800-578-5284
A non-profit organization set up under the Internal Revenue Service code 501 (c) (3) to provide aid to cancer patients, hospices, health care providers, and other non-profit organizations that assist the poor and less fortunate in times of illness by sending much needed products free of charge.

CANCER SURVIVOR’S FUND

281-437-7142
Provides emotional support, and motivates young cancer survivors and channels their thoughts and dreams to a healthy and productive future.

COLORS FOR A CAUSE

337-794-4308
Helps families as they battle cancer by providing financial assistance for mortgage/rent, utilities, travel expenses for medical treatment.

EMILY’S KIDS FOUNDATION

Provides charitable contributions that directly benefit families with children who have cancer.

FIGHT LIKE PAXTON

Provides support, love, and encouragement while lifting the financial burden for families fighting childhood cancer.

FREEGASUSA

Welcome to Free Gas USA Inc. We are the nation’s preeminent nonprofit gasoline grant assistance provider.

FRIENDS OF SANTA CLAUS

Gives financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families.

FRIENDS OF SCOTT

619.223.7268
The Friends of Scott Foundation’s (FSF) mission is to help children with cancer and their families. We ensure they receive the emotional and financial support needed to cope with this devastating disease.

HAPPY CHEMO

(801) 388-1699
Our Mission is to ease the fear, frustration and financial burden associated with cancer by connecting survivors and caregivers to products, services and resources provided by qualified local and national partners.

ISAIAH ALONSO FOUNDATION

(270) 300-5329
One of the objectives of The Isaiah Alonso Foundation is to financially assist deserving families of oncology patients. The Foundation provides grants to minimize the financial hardship that is directly attributable to the child’s illness.

JAKE OWEN RABORN FOUNDATION

888-356-5253
Provides financial support to families enduring pediatric cancer.

JESSICA JUNE CHILDREN’S CANCER FOUNDATION

954-712-6322
The mission of the Jessica June Children’s Cancer Foundation is to provide emergency financial assistance for children fighting cancer to ensure access to basic human necessities.

JOEY POWERS LEUKEMIA PROJECT

727 647-9336
Offers grants up to 500 for household expenses, medical bills for families dealing with pediatric cancer.

JOLEE BOARDER FOUNDATION

Provides assistance to eligible families of children battling pediatric cancer.

KACEY ROSE FOUNDATION

(203)439-0035
Our mission is to provide assistance to families affected by childhood cancer and blood disorders requiring stem cell transplant and to promote umbilical cord blood donation.

KATELYN KARES

Assists with the financial burden placed on families who are caring for a child with a life threatening illness.

KELLY HEIN

570-544-6870
Holds fundraisers and gives back 100% of the profits to families in need.

KISSES FOR KYLE

267-210-1489
Offer gift cards from local merchants, including supermarkets, gas stations, telephone services, restaurants, hair salons and more.

ME FINE FOUNDATION

919-202-0086
Provides necessary resources and financial assistance to parents and caregivers with children being treated at Duke and UNC Children’s Hospitals.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CANCER CARE SOCIETY

314-241-1600
We ease the financial burdens that accompany major illness, give crucial support and address the challenges of survivorship.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S LEUKEMIA FOUNDATION

800-Give-Hope
Helps families of children with cancer, Leukemia and other blood disorders by assisting with expenses for transportation and medical care. The NCLF also assists families living outside of the United States by providing transportation to centers where chil

NATIONAL COLLEGIATE CANCER FUND

240-515-6262
Committed to providing need-based financial support to young adult survivors who are pursuing higher education throughout their treatment and beyond.

NEEDYMEDS

978-281-6666
Devoted to helping people in need find assistance programs to help them afford their medications and costs related to health care.

NELLIE’S CATWALK FOR KIDS

800-859-9183
Provides gas cards, meals, rent/mortgage support, family outings, care packages, crafts, and the list goes on!

ONE MISSION

508-272-6677
One Mission issues funding to programs that provide a safety net for families by helping them with the basic necessities that fall outside the scope of health care.

PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION

800-253-6530
Provides scholarships for brain tumor survivors to attend vocational schools, community colleges and universities across the United States.

REFLECTIONS OF GRACE

Provides financial, emotional, and educational support for the families of children affected by pediatric brain cancer.

SADIES DREAM FOR A CURE

Provides financial support for families in crisis following a pediatric cancer diagnosis.

SMILES FOR SOPHIE FOREVER

216-346-0913
Provides financial support to those families burdened by pediatric brain tumors.

SUPPORT THE KID

631-339-0304
Helps families pay for the cost of experimental cancer treatments, resources for travel to these treatments and any meals or lodging needed while receiving them.

TEAM CONTINUUM

917-595-4184
Provides immediate and vital non-medical assistance to cancer patients and their families when the diagnosis results in disruption, hardship and uncertainty in their everyday lives.

THE BONE MARROW FOUNDATION

212-838-3029
The Bone Marrow Foundation offers financial assistance and free support services to bone marrow/stem cell transplant patients and their families.

THE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CANCER SOCIETY (POP)

314-241-1600
They ease the financial burdens that accompany major illness, give crucial support and address the challenges of survivorship.

UNITED CANCER ADVOCACY ACTION NETWORK

(805)479-1032
We provide financial assistance to cancer patients/survivors in the Tri-County areas of Los Angeles, Ventura County & Santa Barbara Counties and as we grow, we will expand that area.

 

Find Cancer Support in My Area For Children

Here at the Jessie Rees Foundation, we understand that when a child is diagnosed with cancer, it is sometimes a difficult task for parents to find resources, support, hospitals and other organizations close to home or at your child’s place of treatment. Our goal is to help alleviate some of the external stressors that come along with caring for a child with cancer, by allowing parents to spend less time searching and more time focusing on their child and family.

The Jessie Rees Foundation’s NEGU Support Network offers parents quick and easy access to locate Ronald McDonald Houses, Children’s Hospitals, National Resources and local retailers offering discounts for families with a child fighting cancer.

Check out our newly launched NEGU Support Network

Support for Kids With Cancer

Dear Parents,Jessie Rees with her parents

I want you to know the Jessie Rees Foundation is here for YOU and your courageous child. Stacey and I know first-hand what it feels like to be told your child has cancer, search for treatments around the world, watch bills pile up, try to manage your other kids, keep your job going, pray for a miracle, try new foods, sit at chemo, wait for radiation to get over, attend MRI …the list goes on.

NO child or parent should have to go through what we have, but they do, so we HELP.

We hope the Jessie Rees Foundation and the NEGU Family Network can help you. I

NEGU,
Erik & Stacey Rees

Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) Support for Children and Families

The Jessie Rees Foundation is dedicated to supporting children and families fighting Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) and other childhood cancers. Knowing the many additional struggles you may be facing while caring for your child fighting DIPG, our goal is to help to provide you with resources, information and support during this very difficult time.

Here are some things that you might find helpful at the Jessie Rees Foundation:

1) Request a JoyJar for your courageous fighter against DIPG. JoyJars are colorful andGifts for Kids Fighting Cancer inspirational jars filled with hospital-approved toys and games that are sent to children fighting cancer around the world (sent at no financial obligation to children fighting cancer).

2) Visit our NEGU Support Network to locate children’s hospitals, Ronald McDonald Houses and other organizations dedicated to serving children and families fighting cancer.

3) Request one of our special “I’m a NEGU Kid” t-shirts to help encourage your courageous fighter to Never Ever Give Up!

4) Visit our NEGU Kids website to find fun activities, games and printables for your courageous fighter.

5) Nominate your courageous fighter for our NEGU Kid of the week. Our NEGU kids are introduced to our facebook fans and are sent LOTS of messages of encouragement and love.

6) Meet Jessie, learn about her journey, her mission, her wish and her legacy.

Dear Parents,

I want you to know the Jessie Rees Foundation is here for YOU and your courageous child. Stacey Jessie Rees with her parentsand I know first-hand what it feels like to be told your child has cancer, search for treatments around the world, watch bills pile up, try to manage your other kids, keep your job going, pray for a miracle, try new foods, sit at chemo, wait for radiation to get over, attend MRI …the list goes on.

NO child or parent should have to go through what we have, but they do, so we HELP.

We hope the Jessie Rees Foundation and the NEGU Family Network can help you. Please visit us at www.families.negu.org.

NEGU,
Erik & Stacey Rees

 

List of Camps For Kids With Cancer

Around the country, camps are offered to children and teens fighting cancer. Camps give children the opportunity to spend time in a supportive, nurturing environment, while giving them the opportunity to bond with their peers. Below is a list of local and national camps designed to serve children with cancer and their families. Although the camps listed below are not endorsed by the Jessie Rees Foundation, you may find them helpful.

Arizona Camp Sunrise

602-952-7550
Provides free programs for children with cancer and their siblings.

Base Camp

407-673-5060
Provides a year-round base of support for children and families who are facing the challenge of living with cancer and other life-threatening hematological illnesses.

Camp Casey

877-388-8315
Offers horseback riding programs for children with cancer and their families.

Camp Dream Street

601-885-6042
Five day four night camping program for children with physical disabilities.

Camp Good Days and Special Times

800-785-2135
Dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges through summer camping experiences and year-round events and activities.

Camp Make A Dream

406-549-5987
Free camp for children with cancer

Camp Okizy

415-382-9083
Specific purpose is to provide medically supervised recreational therapy in a supportive and loving atmosphere.

Camp Reach For The Sky

619-682-7427
Special camp for children who have, or have had cancer.

Camp Smile A Mile’s

888-500-7920
Provides recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients.

Camp Summer Sault

562-437-0791
Five-day camp for children with cancer aged 6 to 13 and their siblings. Leadership experience for teenagers aged 14 and older.

Camp Sunshine

404-325-7979
Provides programs throughout the year to give children with cancer the opportunity to enjoy normal activities like swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts, and making friends!

Camp Trillium

888-999-CAMP
Childhood cancer support center.

Carol Jean Cancer Foundation

410-531-0758
Provides recreational and support groups free of charge to children with cancer and their families.

COCA

404-661-5753
To strengthen the international community of camps for children with cancer and their families through networking, advocacy and education.

Flying Horse Farms

419-751-7077
Provides magical, transforming experiences for children with serious illnesses. Located on 200 acres in Mt. Gilead, Ohio.

Friends of Santa Claus

The camp is open to kids 4-17 years old and to both children with cancer and their siblings.

Hole in the Wall Gang Camp

203-777-0522
To ensure that every child with a serious medical condition has the chance to experience the world of possibilities that camp has to offer.

Indian Summer Camp

502-794-7103
The mission is to enhance the quality of life for children with cancer and their families through our camp and recreational programs.

Kay’s Kamp

888-539-3413
Provides children ages 5-17 currently battling cancer and those now in remission the opportunity to participate in a unique camping experience promoting fun and normalcy, free of charge.

Kids Camp

877 242-9330
Lists oncology camps by region and state.

Special Love

540-667-3774
A camp that gives children and young adults with cancer and their families a chance to enjoy normal childhood activities.

Tuolumne Trails

800-678-5102
A camp for children with special medical needs, located on 80 beautiful acres of Sierra Nevada wilderness outside the mountain community of Groveland, California near Yosemite National Park.

Worlds Greatest Camp

949-855-1972
Provides year-round recreational and social activities designed to foster supportive relationships for pediatric cancer patients and their families.

Charities for Children With Cancer- We Are Better Together

Every day, approximately 46 children will be told they have cancer. An estimated 15,000 children pediatric cancer statisticswill be told they have cancer each year. Childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease-related deaths for children. Every 4 hours, a child will die from cancer*. We need more funding–we need more support–we need more programs for kids who are battling this horrible disease.

There are some wonderful charities and foundations dedicated to meeting the needs of children and families fighting cancer–some working tirelessly on securing research grants, others offering camps and support programs for the kids. The motto of the Jessie Rees Foundation–We Are Better Together. Together we can fight for more research funding, together we can secure more programs and resources for kids, together we can find a cure. And until there is a “cure”, the Jessie Rees Foundation will continue to “care” for children with cancer. Below is a list of national charities supporting children with cancer* that may be helpful to you and your family.

ADVENTURES

A KID AGAIN

614-797-9500
Offers children, siblings and parents a cost free occasion to enjoy quality time together and to create lasting memories.

CHAI LIFELINE

877-242-5433
Brings joy to the lives of our young patients and their families through creative, innovative, and effective family-centered programs, activities and services.

ORANGE COUNTY FOUNDATION FOR ONCOLOGY CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

949-855 – 1972
Provides year-round recreational and social activities designed to foster supportive relationships for pediatric cancer patients and their families.

TEXAS OUTDOOR C.H.I.L.D.

409-782-1747
Provides children between 8-20 and are residents or native to the state of Texas with their hunting or fishing trip of their dreams.

THE LIGHTHOUSE FAMILY RETREAT

678-290-2955
Provides seaside retreats for families living through childhood cancer.

THE SUNSHINE KIDS FOUNDATION

323- 769-2520
Dedicated to providing the most exciting activities, trips and events for as many young cancer patients as possible.

UNIVERSITY OF TABLE ROCK LAKE FOUNDATION

417-739-4386
Dedicated to help children with cancer or other life threatening illnesses and their families to enjoy a three night/four day vacation at the Table Rock Lake/Branson, MO area.

AWARENESS

AIMEE’S ARMY

Raises awareness and educates the community into the devastation of all childhood cancers.

CAITLIN ROBB FOUNDATION

Dedicated to raise awareness about pediatric cancer.

FIGHT FOR THE GOLD RIBBON KIDS

Dedicated to bring awareness to childhood cancer in Delaware.

HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS

310-882-4002
Raises awareness about childhood cancer and to celebrate the lives of the children battling the disease.

JESSICA JUNE CHILDREN’S CANCER FOUNDATION

954-712-6322
The foundation advocates for and raises awareness of childhood cancer.

JOURNEY 4 A CURE

Committed to enhancing the lives of children and families currently battling cancer while increasing awareness about the realities of pediatric cancer.

NATIONAL COLLEGIATE CANCER FUND

240-515-6262
Promotes awareness and prevention of cancer within the young adult community.

PAC2

Raises awareness of Childhood Cancer and to unite the childhood cancer world to speak as “One Voice United Against Childhood Cancer”.

RED CARPET KIDS FOR THE CURE

503-999-5859
Dedicated to children battling a life threatening disease, who by courage and faith to conquer and survive, deserve recognition with a Celebrity Status.

REFLECTIONS OF GRACE

Dedicated to raising awareness of all types of pediatric brain tumors, with a particular focus on Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), sometimes known as Brainstem Glioma.

SMILES FOR SOPHIE FOREVER

216-346-0913

THE CHILDREN’S CAUSE, INC.

202-336-8374
Consumer based advocacy voice for families and survivors on national policies affecting research

AWARENESS/RESEARCH

CHILDREN’S NEUROBLASTOMA CANCER FOUNDATION

866-671-2623
Committed to finding a cure for Neuroblastoma through research, education, awareness and advocacy.

KIDS RUNWAY FOR RESEARCH

Raises awareness and support for the Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research while providing childhood cancer survivors the opportunity to shine.

PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION

800-253-6530
Brings awareness and is dedicated to supporting the search for the cause of and cure for childhood brain tumors.

BANDS

TREMOR

949-767-3555
A teen classic rock cover band that performs at charity events.

CAMPS

ARIZONA CAMP SUNRISE

602-952-7550
Provides free programs for children with cancer and their siblings.

BASE CAMP

407-673-5060
Provides a year-round base of support for children and families who are facing the challenge of living with cancer and other life-threatening hematological illnesses.

CAMP CASEY

877-388-8315
Offers horseback riding programs for children with cancer and their families.

CAMP DREAM STREET

601-885-6042
Five day four night camping program for children with physical disabilities.

CAMP GOOD DAYS AND SPECIAL TIMES

800-785-2135
Dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges through summer camping experiences and year-round events and activities.

CAMP MAKE A DREAM

406-549-5987
Free camp for children with cancer

CAMP OKIZY

415-382-9083
Specific purpose is to provide medically supervised recreational therapy in a supportive and loving atmosphere.

CAMP REACH FOR THE SKY

619-682-7427
Special camp for children who have, or have had cancer.

CAMP SMILE A MILE’S

888-500-7920
Provides recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients.

CAMP SUMMER SAULT

562-437-0791
Five-day camp for children with cancer aged 6 to 13 and their siblings. Leadership experience for teenagers aged 14 and older.

CAMP SUNSHINE

404-325-7979
Provides programs throughout the year to give children with cancer the opportunity to enjoy normal activities like swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts, and making friends!

CAMP TRILLIUM

888-999-CAMP
Childhood cancer support center.

CAROL JEAN CANCER FOUNDATION

410-531-0758
Provides recreational and support groups free of charge to children with cancer and their families.

COCA

404-661-5753
To strengthen the international community of camps for children with cancer and their families through networking, advocacy and education.

FLYING HORSE FARMS

419-751-7077
Provides magical, transforming experiences for children with serious illnesses. Located on 200 acres in Mt. Gilead, Ohio.

FRIENDS OF SANTA CLAUSE

The camp is open to kids 4-17 years old and to both children with cancer and their siblings.

HOLE IN THE WALL GANG CAMP

203-777-0522
To ensure that every child with a serious medical condition has the chance to experience the world of possibilities that camp has to offer.

INDIAN SUMMER CAMP

502-794-7103
The mission is to enhance the quality of life for children with cancer and their families through our camp and recreational programs.

KAY’S KAMP

888-539-3413
Provides children ages 5-17 currently battling cancer and those now in remission the opportunity to participate in a unique camping experience promoting fun and normalcy, free of charge.

KIDS CAMP

877 242-9330
Lists oncology camps by region and state.

SPECIAL LOVE

540-667-3774
A camp that gives children and young adults with cancer and their families a chance to enjoy normal childhood activities.

TUOLUMNE TRAILS

800-678-5102
A camp for children with special medical needs, located on 80 beautiful acres of Sierra Nevada wilderness outside the mountain community of Groveland, California near Yosemite National Park.

WORLDS GREATEST CAMP

949-855-1972
Provides year-round recreational and social activities designed to foster supportive relationships for pediatric cancer patients and their families.

COMPUTERS

GRAHAMTASTIC CONNECTION

207-324-0888
Offers free computers and Internet access to children with cancer and other serious illnesses for educational purposes

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

ADOPT A PIG

Provides coping mechanisms to children fighting cancer and their families.

CANCER CARE

800-813-4673
Professional oncology social workers provide free emotional and practical support for people with cancer, caregivers, loved ones, and the bereaved.

CANCER KIDS

A fun site to help educate kids about cancer.

CARD THERAPY

310-571-8722
Helps kids, men, women, couples and families heal previously unresolved challenges and current upsets by sending and receiving real greeting cards.

CARE PAGES

646-728-9500
Offers free patient blogs that connect friends and family during their health challenge.

CARING BRIDGE

CaringBridge offers free, easy-to-create Web sites to connect family and friends during a health crisis.

CASEY CARES FOUNDATION

443-568-0064
Provides ongoing, uplifting programs with a special touch to critically ill children and their families.

CHEMO ANGELS

Offers cards of support while your child is going through the first 6 months of chemo or during induction for all patients.

HOPEKIDS

800-319-5845
Provides a message that hope is a powerful medicine and that we will come alongside them to walk through this together.

LEAHS HAPPY HEARTS

734-522-1269

LOCKS OF LOVE

561-833-7332
Provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children 18 years and younger suffering from long term medical hair loss.

LOTSA HELPING HANDS

Supports family caregivers and volunteers by empowering their circles of community.

MIRA’S MOVEMENT

607-319-4804
Provides emotional support to families of a child diagnosed with cancer.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CANCER SOCIETY

314-241-1600

ONCO CHAT

Online peer support for cancer survivors, families and friends.

PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY SUPPORT TEAM

561-882-6336
Partners with families to provide support, teach new skills, offer new perspectives, and help to reinforce their natural resiliency.

ROCK AGAINST CANCER

877-246-0976
Provides music therapy and innovative music programs.

T.H.E. BRAIN TRUSTE HEALING EXCHANGE

877-252-8480
Online support group for brain tumor patients, family members, neurosurgeons, nurses, researchers, social workers and healthcare professionals.

TEEN LIVING WITH CANCER

585-563-6221
The most comprehensive and authoritative web-based resource for teens with cancer, providing an array of resources to support teens, their families and friends.

THE READING GROUP

412-853-5610
To bring together The Body of Christ in Fellowship through the Word of God

YOUNG ADULTS SURVIVING GILOBLASTOMA

Website created to inspire young adults who are diagnosed with this disease.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

ADDISON JO BLAIR FOUNDATION

270-734-1479
The foundation provides grants to minimize the financial hardship that is directly attributed to the child’s illness.

ANGELS OF HOPE

586- 226-3146
Provides financial assistance to children and those who love and care for them as they battle cancer.

AVA’S GIFT TO JUNE

Helps families who have children fighting cancer by helping pay medical bills, travel expenses, and other costs associated with the treatment of childhood cancer.

B+ ORGANIZATION

302-563-8389

BEYOND THE CURE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

314-241-1600
Awards college scholarships to childhood cancer survivors who have demonstrated the ability to overcome the difficult challenges of cancer with determination and motivation.

CANCER SURVIVOR’S FUND

281-437-7142
Provides emotional support, and motivates young cancer survivors and channels their thoughts and dreams to a healthy and productive future.

COLORS FOR A CAUSE

337-794-4308
Helps families as they battle cancer by providing financial assistance for mortgage/rent, utilities, travel expenses for medical treatment.

EMILY’S KIDS FOUNDATION

Provides charitable contributions that directly benefit families with children who have cancer.

FIGHT LIKE PAXTON

Provides support, love, and encouragement while lifting the financial burden for families fighting childhood cancer.

FRIENDS OF SANTA CLAUSE

Gives financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families.

JAKE OWEN RABORN FOUNDATION

888-356-5253
Provides financial support to families enduring pediatric cancer.

JESSICA JUNE CHILDREN’S CANCER FOUNDATION

954-712-6322

JOEY POWERS LEUKEMIA PROJECT

Offers grants up to 500 for household expenses, medical bills for families dealing with pediatric cancer.

JOLEE BOARDER FOUNDATION

Provides assistance to eligible families of children battling pediatric cancer.

KATELYN KARES

Assists with the financial burden placed on families who are caring for a child with a life threatening illness.

KELLY HEIN

570-544-6870
Holds fundraisers and gives back 100% of the profits to families in need.

KISSES FOR KYLE

267-210-1489
Offer gift cards from local merchants, including supermarkets, gas stations, telephone services, restaurants, hair salons and more.

ME FINE FOUNDATION

919-202-0086
Provides necessary resources and financial assistance to parents and caregivers with children being treated at Duke and UNC Children’s Hospitals.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S LEUKEMIA FOUNDATION

800-Give-Hope
Helps families of children with cancer, Leukemia and other blood disorders by assisting with expenses for transportation and medical care. The NCLF also assists families living outside of the United States by providing transportation to centers where chil

NATIONAL COLLEGIATE CANCER FUND

240-515-6262
Committed to providing need-based financial support to young adult survivors who are pursuing higher education throughout their treatment and beyond.

NEEDYMEDS

978-281-6666
Devoted to helping people in need find assistance programs to help them afford their medications and costs related to health care.

NELLIE’S CATWALK FOR KIDS

800-859-9183
Provides gas cards, meals, rent/mortgage support, family outings, care packages, crafts, and the list goes on!

ONE MISSION

508-272-6677
One Mission issues funding to programs that provide a safety net for families by helping them with the basic necessities that fall outside the scope of health care.

PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION

800-253-6530
Provides scholarships for brain tumor survivors to attend vocational schools, community colleges and universities across the United States.

REFLECTIONS OF GRACE

Provides financial, emotional, and educational support for the families of children affected by pediatric brain cancer.

SADIES DREAM FOR A CURE

Provides financial support for families in crisis following a pediatric cancer diagnosis.

SMILES FOR SOPHIE FOREVER

216-346-0913
Provides financial support to those families burdened by pediatric brain tumors.

SUPPORT THE KID

631-339-0304
Helps families pay for the cost of experimental cancer treatments, resources for travel to these treatments and any meals or lodging needed while receiving them.

TEAM CONTINUUM

917-595-4184
Provides immediate and vital non-medical assistance to cancer patients and their families when the diagnosis results in disruption, hardship and uncertainty in their everyday lives.

THE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CANCER SOCIETY (POP)

314-241-1600

GIFT ITEMS

B-STRONG FOUNDATION

Provide meals, gift baskets and encouragement to families with children who have been diagnosed with cancer.

BATTLING BUDDIES

610-417-7207
Offers Scentsy Buddies to children fighting cancer.

BEARS FOR SMILES

Helps other children get through those tough times by giving them a special bear.

BUTTERFLIES FOR COURAGEOUS KIDS

775-224-5470
Donates a personalized decorated butterfly to bring hope to a child fighting cancer.

CAKES AGAINST CANCER FOR KIDS

Provides custom celebration cakes and other treats to families impacted by the critical illness of a child.

CARDS FOR HOSPITALIZED KIDS

CHEMO COMFORT PILLOW

407-694-6056
Makes fleece pillow/lap blankets for cancer patients.

CONKERR CANCER

610-247-1361
Provides a bright cheery pillowcase to every seriously ill child.

DESIGNING 4 HOPE

484-758-0779
Dedicated to helping critically ill children by giving them dream bedroom makeover.

FOREVER TRINITY DREAM

817-975-8070
Helps terminally ill children and their families create fabulous memories to treasure forever.

HATS OFF FOR CANCER

424-888-HOFC
Provides new hats for kids battling cancer.

ICING SMILES

443-326-3569
Provides custom celebration cakes and other treats to families impacted by the critical illness of a child.

JOURNEY 4 A CURE

It is their hope that the simple gift of an iPad will provide some happiness to a child who has had their childhood experience compromised by the devastation that is cancer.

KARLEE’S ANGELS

503-302-2495
Provides gifts for kids in the hospital to help put a smile on their faces.

KINFOLK

877-546-3055
Provides a laptop computer and Internet access to end the boredom, depression and sense of isolation experienced by kids who are hospitalized or homebound due to serious illness or injury.

KISS THE TOAD CREATIONS

925-216-2272
Encourage and recognize the superhuman strength of a child who is battling a life threatening illness by sponsoring a Superhero Cape.

LITTLE SMILES

610-765-1272
Provides toys, computers, special events, tickets, and celebrity will meet with children in local hospitals, hospices and shelters.

MASON LEACH SUPER STAR FUND

Supports existing programs at the hospital and provide the extras: funds, toys, arts supplies, gift cards, laundry detergent, anything we can do to make things easier for kids while in the hospital.

NICKELBY PROJECT

919-553-9161
Provides a gift bag to help ease the worries and fears of children with a chronic or life threatening illness, provide hospital support and educational support.

PEACH’S NEET FEET

505-485-9299
Creates custom made shoes for children fighting cancer.

PILLOWCASES FOR PATIENTS

503-758-6767
Dedicated to bring joy and smiles to children and adults fighting life-threatening illnesses by personally making a pillowcase inspired by their favorite things.

RAINBOW BABIES AND CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS “TREY’S LEMONADE STAND”

888-844-8447
Donates tricycles with IV poles, crayons, baby toys, swings, craft sets and handmade blankets for babies in the NICU.

RIAH’S RAINBOWS

Provides coloring book and crayons to pediatric patients.

SADIE’S DREAM FOR A CURE

Provides hospitals with reusable fabric tote bags to distribute filled with activities for children going through cancer treatment.

SONGS OF LOVE

800-960-7664
Creates free, personalized, original songs to uplift children and teens currently facing tough medical, physical or emotional challenges.

TATUM’S BAGS OF FUN

Tatum’s Bags of Fun distributes backpacks filled with activities, games & toys to every child diagnosed with cancer in Indiana.

THE BLANKET FAIRY

Donates blankets as they can to children with pediatric cancer.

THE MONDAY LIFE

WAGONTALES

208-995-0331
To bring smiles to the children in our local hospitals and provide a break from the challenges they are facing in their everyday lives.

WIGS FOR KIDS

440- 333-4433
Provides hair replacement systems and support for children who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, Alopecia, Trichotillomania, burns and other medical issues at no cost to children or their families.

ZACH’S TOY CHEST

702- 439-9394
Fighting cancer one toy at a time.

GIFT OF MUSIC

MUSICIANS ON CALL

212-741-2709
Musicians On Call brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities.

GRANTS WISHES

DREAM FLIGHT

01494 722733
Sends seriously ill children on their “holiday of a lifetime”.

FRIENDS OF SANTA CLAUSE

Friends of Santa Claus grants “Special Wishes” to children who suffer a relapse.

KIDS WISH NETWORK

888-918-9004
Grants wishes to children with life threatening medical conditions.

MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION

800-722-9474
Offers a “wish” to children 3 or older.

SPECIAL WISH FOUNDATION

614-258-3186
Dedicated to granting the wishes of children under the age of 21 who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening disorder.

THE DREAM FACTORY

800-456-7556
The Dream Factory is used directly to grant the dreams of critically and chronically ill children.

WISH UPON A HERO

877-974-4370
Grants wishes to those in need through the Wish Upon a Hero website.

GRIEF SUPPORT

ADAM UPDATE

517-768-8941
A non-profit organization supporting grieving parents and children.

GARY’S PLACE FOR KIDS

949.348.0548
Gary’s Place For Kids provides the opportunity for grieving children, teens and their families to express and process their feelings in a safe and healthy environment. This foundation provides encouragement and community support at a critical time in a grieving family’s life.

KISSES FOR KYLE

267-210-1489
Offer gift cards from local merchants, including supermarkets, gas stations, telephone services, restaurants, hair salons and more.

KISSES FOR KYLE

267-210-1489
Helps cover funeral expenses as needed.

HOUSING

BELIEVE IN TOMORROW

800-744-1984
Offers housing for children and their families with a life threatening illness who are currently and up to a year after treatment.

SUPER COOPERS LITTLE RED WAGON FOUNDATION

PEACH’S NEET FEET

PHOTOGRAPHY

CANCERCARE

800-813-HOPE
Provides free, professional support services for anyone affected by cancer.

FLASHES OF HOPE

440-442-9700
Dedicated to creating powerful, uplifting portraits of children fighting cancer and other life threatening diseases.

SWEET NECTAR SOCIETY

559-307-6538
Dedicated to capturing the hope, courage and strength of children undergoing treatment for serious illnesses, disabilities and injuries through photography.

RESEARCH

AMERICAN BRAIN TUMOR ASSOCIATION

800-886-2282
Website of resources, research, and a community of patients, survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals and others that can help.

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY

847-375-4716
Dedicated to the study and treatment of childhood cancer and promote care, education and research.

CHILDHOOD CANCER RESEARCH GROUP

01865 617800
A research group built around the National Registry of Childhood Tumors.

CHILDREN’S BRAIN TUMOR ASSOCIATION

866-228-4673
Dedicated to improve the treatment, quality of life and the long term outlook for children with brain and spinal cord tumors through research, support, education, and advocacy to families and survivors.

CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND

800-426-5413
Dedicated to research in childhood cancer as well as enrich the quality of life for children with cancer by improving clinical and support services.

CHILDREN’S ONCOLOGY GROUP

215-590-6359

LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

914-949-5213

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S LEUKEMIA FOUNDATION

800-Give-Hope
Fulfills the wishes of young cancer patients, arranges family trips, tours, introductions to celebrities and other requests. Fulfillment of wishes is available to children diagnosed with cancer, Leukemia or other life-threatening blood disorders.

ONE MISSION

508-272-6677
Dedicated to enhancing the lives of pediatric cancer patients and their families.

THE CRISTIAN RIVERA FOUNDATION

212- 779-2222
Donates all monies raised to hospitals and foundations actively researching cures for Pontine Glioma through medical trials and scientific research.

THE TANNER SEEBAUM FOUNDATION

303-771-HOPE
Positively impact the lives of children with tumors of the brain and spine through funding and supporting viable medical research that will lead to more effective treatment options and ultimately a cure for this tragic disease.

RESEARCH/FUNDING

ALEX’S LEMONADE STAND FOUNDATION

610-649-3034
Raises money and awareness of childhood cancer causes, primarily research into new treatments and cures.

B+ ORGANIZATION

302-563-8389
Dedicated to funding childhood cancer research in search of cures and advancements in chemotherapy.

CHASE AFTER A CURE

843-270-2954
Dedicated to children’s cancer research and to raise money and awareness for Neuroblastoma.

CHILDHOOD BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION

877-217-4166
Raises funds for scientific research and heighten public awareness of this most devastating disease and to improve prognosis and quality of life for those that are affected.

CHILDREN’S CAUSE FOR CANCER ADVOCACY

202-336-8374
The leading national advocacy organization working to achieve access to less toxic and more effective pediatric cancer therapies; to expand resources for research and specialized care; and to address the unique needs and challenges of childhood cancer sur

JOANNA MCFEE CHILDHOOD CANCER FOUNDATION

478-293-1670
Raises awareness, provides support and funds research for childhood cancer.

JUST ONE MORE DAY

321-698-8538
Committed to providing information and support for families affected by diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, promoting awareness, and funding research for a cure.

MIRA’S MOVEMENT

607-319-4804
Raises awareness and advocates for increased public and private funding for childhood cancer research.

MOTHERS AGAINST CANCER

713-598-3506
To raise children’s cancer research funds specifically for the cancer unit at Texas Children’s Hospital Cancer Center.

PEARCE Q. FOUNDATION

302 994 1124
Donates to the ongoing research effort at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and other quality of life projects. In addition they raise awareness of childhood cancers and support fund raising activities.

RALLY FOUNDATION

404-847-1270
Raises awareness and funds for childhood cancer research to find better treatments with fewer long-term side effects and ultimately a cure.

TEAM JULIAN FOUNDATION

248-790-2350
Raise awareness and funds for research to arm kids with a fighting chance against childhood cancer.

THROUGH KYLE’S EYES

951-698-3414
To create an organization devoted to finding a cure for Retinoblastoma.

TUCKER ARNOLD FOUNDATION

541-706-1825
Tucker’s Toybox wants to help ease that burden for brave kids facing long days ahead of them in the hospital by sending them a Gift Of Encouragement.

RESOURCES YOU CAN BUY

MEMORY GLASS

866-488-4554
They offer to memorialize your loved one by incorporating a very small amount of cremated remains into custom glass orbs and pendants.

THE BEAUBEAU

941-361-2408
Helps girls maintain style and dignity during medical hair loss.

TOUCHED BY CANCER MAGAZINE

919-278-2680
Touched by Cancer is a bimonthly magazine dedicated to providing a non-medical resource guide for everyone affected by cancer in the Triangle and surrounding area of North Carolina.

SUPPORT SERVICES

ACOR

212-226-5525
Online cancer communities designed to provide timely and accurate information in a supportive environment.

ARTS FOR LIFE DURHAM

828-658-1599
Teaches arts to children and teens who have serious and chronic illnesses, and they teach children who need ongoing therapies and treatments.

BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN

404-252-4107
Provides support services programs for children with brain tumors.

BRAIN TUMOUR FOUNDATION OF CANADA

800-265-5106
Serves the needs of those Canadians affected by all types of brain tumors.

CANCER INDEX

A guide to internet resources for childhood cancer.

CANCER SURVIVORS

A chat room that allows you to search by topic of adult survivors of childhood cancer and parents of childhood cancer patients. They also have a weekly general chat session.

CANDLELIGHTERS

855-858-2226
Provides information and support for children and adolescents with cancer and their families.

CARE ZONE

888-407-7785

CHRISTOPHER’S HAVEN

857-233-4178
Gives hope for kids when cancer hits home.

DELAWARE DREAMS

302-239-0428
Povides for the special needs and/or wishes of Delaware children with a serious illness or health related hardship.

GABE’S CHEMO DUCK PROGRAM

615-830-0126
Gabe’s Chemo Duck Program is a standardized, comprehensive education system for children and families coping with childhood cancer.

JACOB’S HEART

831-724-9100
To improve the quality of life for children with cancer and support their families in the challenges they face.

JERAMIAH’S MIRACLE FOUNDATION

602-456-2043
Provides support, with love and encouragement to families of the seriously ill, providing research services, transportation, education, financial assistance, and a listening ear.

JUST IN TIME NEUROBLASTOMA FOUNDATION

Dedicated to helping each family by passing on the knowledge of the many people involved in our foundation when their lives were impacted by a child with cancer.

KEATON RAPHAEL MEMORIAL

916-784-6786
Dedicated to increasing awareness and funding research toward a cure.

KIDS CANCER NETWORK

The FUNLETTER, a kid-friendly publication filled with games, puzzles and cheer designed to encourage children during their cancer therapies, was published and distributed through the mail fro

KIDS KICKING CANCER

313-557-0021
Provides weekly classes for children, both inpatient and outpatient, in the mind-body techniques found in the martial arts.

LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

914-949-5213
Provides free information and support services for those with blood cancer.

LIFE WITH CANCER

703-698-2526
Provides seminars, support groups, educational meetings and workshops.

LITTLE MISS HANNAH FOUNDATION

702-608-2488
To help enhance the quality of life for young children diagnosed with life-limiting rare diseases, undiagnosed complex medical needs, and children who have been placed in hospice or palliative care.

MIRA’S MOVEMENT

607-319-4804
Provides informational and emotional support to families of a child diagnosed with cancer.

MONKEY IN MY CHAIR

513-722-4888
Helps cancer patients stay connected with their classmates and helps educate their friends and teachers.

NATIONAL GRACE FOUNDATION

401-793-6337
Assists, counsels and advises families on matters pertaining to the admission and financial aid processes.

NORTHWEST INDIANA CANCER KIDS FOUNDATION

219-765-7677
Supports local families with many different resources.

ONCOLINK

Comprehensive site, with searchable databases, contains up to date disease specific information and a searchable database.

ONE MISSION

508-272-6677
One Mission funds patient & family support programs that provide vital services designed to educate, empower and lift the spirits of pediatric cancer patients and their families as they deal with the diagnosis and treatment of this devastating disease.

PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION

800-253-6530
Provides a resource library that has booklets and MP3s on many topics relevant to your struggle.

ROCK AGAINST CANCER

877-246-0976
Supports and empowers pediatric cancer patients by providing music therapy and innovative music programs.

SUPER SIBS

847-462-4742
Ensuring that siblings of children with cance are honored, supported and recognized so they may face the future with strength, courage and hope.

THE BRAIN CANDY PROJECT

978-704-1269
Supports the needs of parents/guardians living in the hospital with their critically ill children.

THE LET IT BE FOUNDATION

909-613-9161
Provides support and services to families of children diagnosed with pediatric life threatening illnesses, to bring a sense of normally in the home environment.

TRAVEL SUPPORT

AIR CARE ALLIANCE

888-260-9707
Volunteers perform public benefit flying for health care, patient transport, disaster relief, and other missions of public service.?

ANGEL FLIGHT CENTRAL

866-569-9464
Dedicated to removing the burdens of arranging long-distance transportation at times of personal and community crisis.

CHILDREN’S FLIGHT OF HOPE

919-466-8593
Provides free, private air transportation for seriously ill or injured children who, due to medical, financial or logistical reasons, cannot travel to their destinations by any other method.

COMPASS TO CARE

773-340-2873
Compass to Care provides families the travel resources needed to get their children the best cancer treatment possible.

CORPORATE ANGEL NETWORK

866-328-1313
Offer free air transportation to and from US cancer hospitals.

LIFE LINE PILOTS

309-697-6282
Facilitate free air transportation through volunteer pilots.

MERCY MEDICAL AIRLIFT

757-318-9174
Provides travel for patients in need.

NATIONAL PATIENT TRAVEL HELP LINE TRAVEL

800-296-12171
Provides information about all forms of charitable, long-distance medical air transportation and provides referrals to all appropriate sources of help available in the national charitable medical air transportation network.2

 

* The charities and foundations listed above are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Jessie Rees Foundation. Information provided here is strictly informational. Consult your medical professional for specific medical advice.

Neuroblastoma Support- Childhood Cancers

Neuroblastoma, although noted as a rare form of childhood cancer, is the most common type of cancer in infants, according to cancer.org. Neuroblastoma accounts for 6% of all childhood cancers with approximately 700 new diagnosed children each year. 1-2 years of age is the average year of diagnosis–90% of diagnosed cases made before 5 years of age, as noted by kidshealth.org

childhood cancer awareness ribbonNeuroblastoma is a malignant tumor that begins in the nerve tissue (childrenshospital.org). Causes and risk factors are still widely unknown. According to cancer.org the 5-year survival rate for children fighting neuroblastoma can vary based on the child’s risk level, age, location of tumor and responsiveness to treatment (kidshealth.org).

The Jessie Rees Foundation is dedicated to supporting children and families fighting cancer. Knowing the many additional struggles you may be facing while caring for your child, our goal is to help to provide you with resources, information and support during this very difficult time.

Dear Parents,

I want you to know the Jessie Rees Foundation is here for YOU and your courageous child. Stacey Jessie Rees with her parentsand I know first-hand what it feels like to be told your child has cancer, search for treatments around the world, watch bills pile up, try to manage your other kids, keep your job going, pray for a miracle, try new foods, sit at chemo, wait for radiation to get over, attend MRI …the list goes on.

NO child or parent should have to go through what we have, but they do, so we HELP.

We hope the Jessie Rees Foundation and the NEGU Family Network can help you. Please visit us at www.families.negu.org.

NEGU,
Erik & Stacey Rees

Some helpful resources and informational websites for information about neuroblastoma*

American Cancer Society- Neuroblastoma

Kids Health- Neuroblastoma

Duke Health- Neuroblastoma

 

St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital- Neuroblastoma

*this information is intended for informational purposes only. Consult your medical professional for specific medical questions and/or concerns. The websites listed here are not affiliated for endorsed by the Jessie Rees Foundation.

 

 

Nephroblastoma-Wilm’s Tumor Support for Kids and Families

Welcome to the Jessie Rees Foundation. We are a global childhood cancer charity focusing on Kids With Cancerproviding care and support to children fighting cancer, including children fighting nephroblastoma. The Jessie Rees Foundation was founded by 12-year old Jessie Rees who fought two inoperable, incurable brain tumors for ten months. During her courageous fight, Jessie used her motto NEGU as a constant reminder to Never Ever Give Up. As a way to spread her NEGU message to other kids fighting cancer, Jessie founded JoyJars–colorful jars filled with hospital approved toys and activities that are sent to children fighting cancer around the world.

Jessie earned her wings in January 2012. In her legacy and to continue Jessie’s wish of encouraging kids fighting cancer to Never Ever Give Up, the Jessie Rees Foundation is dedicated to providing support and resources to children and families fighting cancer. Here are some things that you might helpful at negu.org

Pediatric Cancer1) Request a JoyJar for your courageous child fighting nephroblastoma. JoyJars are available at no financial obligation to the families.

2) Request a NEGU Power Pack for your courageous child. Power Packs are an all-in-one hospital room or bedroom facelift kit. The NEGU Power Pack offers an opportunity to turn a sterile hospital room into a place of encouragement and support. NEGU Power Packs are also available to children fighting cancer at no financial obligation to the families.

3) Use our NEGU family resource guide to locate children’s hospitals, Ronald McDonald houses and other childhood cancer organizations in your area.

4) Nominate your courageous child as our NEGU kid of the week. Our NEGU kids get special notes of encouragement and love from our fans!

5) Join us on facebook as we join together to bring more awareness to childhood cancer and show our support for courageous kids fighting cancer.

 

 

Cancer Care-A Family Resource Network

Jessie ReesJessica (Jessie) Joy Rees is known to thousands as a pioneer, a leader and a spokesperson for pediatric cancer awareness.  More importantly, she is a hero and inspiration to the over 250,000 kids and their families, who are currently fighting cancer all over the world. In March of 2011, Jessie was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), which is a brain tumor within and around the brain stem, making it inoperable.  During her 10 month fight, a time when most people would be looking inward, 12 year old Jessie chose to focus her time and energy helping other kids—courageous kids,  who felt lonely and limited due to their own fights with cancer.

Since Jessie’s passing in early 2012, the Jessie Rees Foundation has continued to provide care to countless kids fighting cancer by delivering Jessie’s JoyJars to hospitals and Ronald McDonald Houses. In addition, Jessie’s parents, Erik and Stacey Rees, learned through their journey in caring for a child with cancer, that there was a lack of online resources made available to parents and families. In order to fill this void, the Jessie Rees Foundation developed it’s very own family resource network. The Jessie Rees Foundation Family Resource Network is a place for parents to locate children’s hospitals and Ronald McDonald Houses, national childhood cancer foundations, financial support foundations, camps and more. The Jessie Foundation team will continue to search for and add valuable sources of information to help parents in the most difficult time of their lives.

Dear Parents,Jessie Rees with her parents

I want you to know the Jessie Rees Foundation is here for YOU and your courageous child. Stacey and I know first-hand what it feels like to be told your child has cancer, search for treatments around the world, watch bills pile up, try to manage your other kids, keep your job going, pray for a miracle, try new foods, sit at chemo, wait for radiation to get over, attend MRI …the list goes on.

NO child or parent should have to go through what we have, but they do, so we HELP.

We hope the Jessie Rees Foundation and the NEGU Family Network can help you. Please visit us at www.families.negu.org.

NEGU,
Erik & Stacey Rees

 

 

When Your Child is Fighting Cancer- Keeping Your Marriage Strong

The devastating words, “your child has cancer”, can rock the core of the strongest of family foundations. As the parents stand close to their child during the journey of treatment, new realities set in–hospital and doctor visits are frequent and non-negotiable, sometimes at the expense of one’s job–medical bills continue to come and travel expenses increase with back and forth hospital visits– and exhaustion, due to worry, stress and lack of sleep become a new norm– All of which can take a heavy toll on a marriage.

An article written by Deborah Raiees-Dana, was published on the Arkansas Children’s Hospital website titled, Diamonds or Dust: Keeping Your Marriage Together While Your Child Fights For Life. Raiees-Dana gives a very insightful account of what couples may experience together when caring for a child who is fighting a life threatening illness. Her message–stay strong–together.

Raiees-Dana talks in her article about the loss of her daughter to cancer at the age of 14 and her simultaneous struggling marriage. “In October of 1999, Jasmin died and my spouse filed for divorce. I don’t know if having something in our hands would have saved our marriage or not, but it would have been nice to have been forewarned, and to have understood the differences that often exist in coping styles between men and women. Watching my daughter suffer as she struggled while watching our marriage fall apart was almost as bad as watching her suffer from the disease that eventually took her life. I felt painlessly helpless in both situations”- Raiees-Dana.

In her article, Raiees-Dana points out that, your marriage will change when caring for an ill child. “You will face some of the worst fears and stresses that a parent can imagine, and that will affect the way you view the world from now on”. But through it all, she explains, most marriages do make it through and often times become stronger for having shared such a journey together.

Some of the top stressors she mentions are prevalent during this time– (1) finances (2) lack of sleep and exhaustion, (3) gender differences–men and women can sometimes handle stressful situations in very different ways and their perceived, or already established parenting roles, may play an affect on how each will handle caring for their child.

Along with providing helpful tips to how to avoid communication breakdowns and how support each other through grief, Raiees-Dana also encourages parents to reach out to their support systems when needed–family, friends, support groups and communities of faith. “Many people find that God is an important source of strength for them”, Raiees-Dana explains, “and though their faith may be tested through the ordeal, it often becomes stronger because of their experiences”.

“No one chooses a potentially fatal disease for his or her child. It descends on you uninvited and forces its presence on all the members of the family. You also can’t control those around you, and you can’t expect them to react in ways that you perceive as best. Although you may feel as if you are at the complete mercy of your circumstances, the truth is that you are still in control of how you respond to this new reality. If you find yourself at the end of your resources, you can take the initiative to find options for help beyond yourself.

As a couple, you can decide together to do what it takes and not allow the disease to steal your marriage. You have all the ingredients necessary for diamond formation. Diamonds, however, are expensive, while dust is cheap. You will need to be willing to pay the price to transform your relationship into a gem. There is help and hope for those who commit together to do what is best for their marriage, their child, and their family as a whole. You do not need to go through the process alone. And when you have overcome, your strength, clarity, and light can bring hope to”- Raiees-Dana.

For the complete article, please visit the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Website. .