By Samantha Thompson | Donor Relations Specialist
At CCA, we know that for seriously ill children and their families, every moment is precious, and we’ve made it our mission to transform those moments with joy. When Blake was diagnosed with clear cell sarcoma kidney (CCSK) at just 2-year-old, CCA was there to deliver the healing power of friendship right to his bedside with the Chemo Pal® Mentor Program.
“When we first heard about the CCA and the Chemo Pal Program, I was honestly skeptical and sort of confused by it all,” said Blake’s mom Renee. “But after meeting Aunnah and finding out more about what the CCA is all about I have been changed.”
Having faced a difficult year of treatment and many days in the hospital, Renee was grateful that Blake had a trusted adult friend who could distract him with fun and games and ease his pain and anxiety.
“Aunnah is amazing and has become family, Blake calls her his other brother! Every visit with her turns into an adventure,” she said. “Aunnah is always focused on making Blake happy, and he is always bursting with joy when she’s around.”
After a long, hard fought battle, Blake is now in remission and was able to celebrate with his Chemo Pal and life-long friend.
Blake is one of the 250 Pacific Northwest children and teens CCA’s Chemo Pal® Mentor Program has brought the joy of friendship in the past year. Trained Chemo Pal mentors have devoted 5,800 hours forging and strengthening friendships and family bonds, bringing diversion, fun, and activities to kids during their treatment. Chemo Pal mentors also give parents a much-needed break to grab a cup of coffee, talk with doctors, or spend time with their other children.
In 2013, Oregon Mentors awarded CCA’s Chemo Pal Mentor Program with their most prestigious award for mentoring excellence, recognizing the program for exceeding standards of excellence and quality.
With your support, we can match even more seriously ill children and teens with compassionate adults who offer supportive relationships throughout treatments.
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