Dear Candlelighters Supporters,Â
I cannot believe we are already in April of 2022. Over the last two years, although many things have changed, much has stayed the same, including the impact your support has had on pediatric cancer patients and their families. Â
Since 2020, we have had 168 new families turn to Candlelighters after hearing the heartbreaking words “your child has cancer.â€Â We have worked to overcome restrictions and barriers so we could continue to serve our families through the pandemic, with virtual gatherings and drive-thru events, and even care packages delivered to doorsteps across the state! This could not have happened without your continued support – THANK YOU!Â
The isolation and frustration of not being able to get together in person was felt deeply, from everyone. As we approached 2022, our goal was to bring back safe, in-person events for our Candlelighters families. Community is the heart of our mission, and it was time to reconnect, once again
Because of your continued support, we have been able to hold four in-person events in 2022, statewide. Families across the state have enjoyed activities including:
- A mom and daughter planter-making party in Southern OregonÂ
- A Snow Day in the mountains in Mid-Willamette Valley
- In Portland, families got to Hop into Spring at the Hillsboro Hops baseball game on April 10thÂ
- Families in Mid-Willamette Valley had a spring scavenger hunt on April 9th full of games, a mural walk and ice cream sandwiches!Â
Thank you for making these community events possible. For providing a place for our families to connect with others who walk the path of childhood cancer. For 168 families, these 2022 events are some of the first opportunities they have had to connect and build community with other Candlelighter families.Â
On behalf of Candlelighters For Children With Cancer, you are making a difference each and every day and we are forever grateful.Â
With Warmth and Gratitude,Â
Sarah Breece