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We would like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our supporters and sponsors. Your kindness and generosity is overwhelming. We could not provide the programs and essential support for our families without you.
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| Patient Support |
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Beaded Journey
This program tells the story of each child's individual journey throughout their cancer treatment. The children receive a length of leather twine and beads that spell out their first name. During their treatment they add to the necklace by selecting beads that symbolize their treatment, surgeries, diagnostic procedures and bloodwork. A journal is also provided. This program allows the children themselves to explain their journey to their family and friends.
End of Chemotherapy Celebration
A celebration attended by family, friends and staff, is held in the hospital playroom to mark the end of treatment. The child is presented with a medal, small gift and a special cake. A photograph is taken to mark this very important milestone.
Gifts of Courage
At the completion of a procedure a small "reward" such as a toy, book, or game is given to the child. Although the reward cannot eliminate the anxiety felt by the child, it can have a soothing effect and quickly help to erase the memory of the treatment. This program is especially affective for the younger patients.
Transitional Support
Each year approximately 50 children complete their chemotherapy and radiation treatments. For many families this has been a long and difficult journey, which in many cases has taken more than 2 years. For so many families the journey has taken its toll on their ability to live a normal life. Many families feel that the security blanket that has been woven for them is abruptly removed leaving them with a feeling of vulnerability. In recognition of the need to assist families re-enter a life of normalcy a "transition package has been produced". This transition package contains necessary medical information such as "what to look for, and when to call the doctor". It is also very important to include items that encourage the family to return to a normal lifestyle.
Relaxation Tapes
The psychosocial team uses relaxation tapes and works with the child and their family to reduce anxiety during difficult periods throughout their treatment and recovery.
Camp SunMaker
The Kids with Cancer Society provides funding for all Northern Alberta children with cancer, and their siblings to attend Camp SunMaker. This program, delivered by the Kids Cancer Care Foundation, is open for children aged six to sixteen and is held at Camp Horizon in beautiful Kananaskis Country.
Bursary
Bursaries totaling $10,000 are awarded to childhood cancer patients and survivors in support of their post secondary education. Bursaries of $500 to $1000 will be paid directly to the post secondary institution. A limited number of bursaries are awarded each year in early August. Information regarding eligibility and the application process will be available on the website in early May.
Television services
Televisions on the oncology unit have been provided by the Kids with Cancer Society. This was made possible thanks to donations in honor of Derek, a very special young man and the Ronald McDonald Children's Charities.
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Emma diagnosed at age 2 with leukemia
Courtesy ~ Robert Bray The Art of Photography |
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