As parents, my husband and I feel like it is our job to teach our children about giving back and being compassionate. About being kind to everyone they meet and always being aware of ways to help those in need. We have gotten the kids actively involved in local charity drives and helped them collect food for a local shelter. The have participated in local fundraisers for different organizations in our area and for others through their schools. During the holidays, we’ve “adopted” families to give gifts to and visited a local nursing home to take small gifts and spend time with the residents.
While all of these activities have been great, this year I wanted to take it a little bit further. I wanted to give back in a personal way – to a cause that has become very dear to our hearts.
Recently, friends of ours revealed the news that their young son had been diagnosed with leukemia. The boy is the same age as my son, and I just can’t imagine what they are going through. There have been nights since I learned of his diagnoses that I’ve laid awake, heartbroken and scared for my friends. When I considered how our family could give back this year, there was no doubt where our focus should be.
Childhood cancer is the number one cause of death by disease in children, yet only 4% of government cancer funding is directed towards pediatric cancer.
Tackle Kids Cancer is an organization that funds pediatric cancer research and innovative patient care programs to find a cure. Because the pediatric cancer community is small, discoveries made by researchers with Tackle Kids Cancer dollars help children worldwide.
Tackle Kids Cancer provides an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children with cancer this holiday season and all throughout the year. It is a way for a child to help another child, and families to help other families – just like our friend – as well as thousands of other kids.
While our friends’ son is not completely out of the woods yet, I’m happy to say he is doing better. One thing that amazes me is the strength and resiliency the little guy has – even on days he feels his worst. Tackle Kids Cancer shares stories of courage on their from kids of all ages. In every story I see likenesses to my own children and I am amazed and inspired by these little champions.
You can learn more about how you can make a difference by visiting TackleKidsCancer.org. This is a great way to start giving back this holiday season. Even the smallest donations can make a big difference to children battling pediatric cancer. Please visit and consider joining the fight.
Keri justice says
This likes like a very worthy cause to give to!
Julie Wood says
This is a good way to give back during the Holidays. Instead of going overboard and buying too many gifts, I can give to those in need!
Dana Rodriguez says
We always try to give back every year during the holidays by supporting the local food bank but I love this idea too.