As a childhood cancer advocate for the past 7 years, I can attest that children with cancer and their families have benefitted greatly from Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation programs and vision. I have worked with them to lobby Congress to pass legislation that is vital to obtaining research funds for pediatric cancers and funding to help survivors. I have witnessed their work in helping families who are struggling with problems due to the financial burden they must bear when they lose income, and or have extra travel expenses due to their child's cancer. The families are also helped with bereavement programs when they have a child taken by cancer. AWOCCF is the glue to the fabric of our childhood cancer community through CureFest, a huge September event, held in Washington, DC each year that brings thousands of people together to bring awareness to address the needs of childhood cancer. In addition, they fund one of the largest voices in the country, The Truth365, which has over 150,000 followers that are united and strengthened because of the information, help, and direction they receive as followers. I do not know what our community would do without such a great organization. Joe Baber
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of personally witnessing the incredible work that Dena, James Beale, and the entire Arms Wide Open Foundation do to support families in need. I’ve watched the “Shave for a Cure” fundraiser grow tremendously, and that growth inspired me, my wife and Angelo and Vanessa Luppino to get involved.
With Dena and James, we launched a toy drive every December, and now we’ve expanded it into a “Christmas in July” event as well. Their passion and dedication are truly contagious. Dena and the Arms Wide Open Foundation are an inspiration — they make everyone believe they can be part of something meaningful and help make a real difference.
Children are our most precious treasure, and Dena and the Arms Wide Open goes above and beyond to ensure that every child receives the care, love, and attention they deserve. Their work is nothing short of life-changing.
I have been volunteering with Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation for the past 10 years (since I was just six years old). In that time, AWOCCF has become so much more than a cause to me; it’s become a family. Through the foundation, I’ve met the most incredible, resilient people, built lifelong friendships, and discovered a deep passion for advocacy and support. AWOCCF’s commitment to funding less toxic treatments for childhood cancer, providing direct family support through grants and programs like Thrive, and uplifting every child and family impacted by cancer is nothing short of inspiring. One of the most powerful moments each year is CureFest. The weekend unites the entire childhood cancer community together in strength and hope and I feel truly honored to be part of it every year. Volunteering with AWOCCF has shaped who I am today. I am endlessly grateful for this journey as it has truly changed my life.
I had the life changing opportunity to be involved with the Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, and I cannot express enough how impactful their work is. This organization brings hope to children and families battling cancer, continuously raising funds for new trials, less toxic treatments, and monthly assistance to ease the financial burden on parents fighting for their child’s life.
The foundation also provides supportive bereavement retreats for families who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child. Their unwavering commitment to raising awareness and funds truly sets them apart in the community.
Volunteering with this foundation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I highly encourage others to get involved too. There are numerous ways to support their mission, from monetary donations to contributing toys for children undergoing treatment in hospitals.
Their efforts have even led them to unite various cancer foundations in D.C. to advocate for increased funding for childhood cancer research. Dena Sherwood, the founder, is dedicated to changing the landscape of childhood cancer, and her passion is inspiring. Additionally, the annual Cure Fest event, which brings together over 200 foundations each September, is a powerful reminder of the collective effort needed to raise awareness.
What I find most impressive is that 100% of donations go directly toward helping kids with cancer. This grassroots foundation has become one of the most respected organizations in the country, providing hope to countless families. I wholeheartedly recommend getting involved with Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation – together, we can make a difference!
Dena is one of the most kind, generous, compassionate, loving individuals I have ever met. She pours her heart and soul into everything she does, and goes above and beyond for the children and families affected by childhood cancer. Arms Wide Open is a charity that I am proud to support and advocate for.
My daughter is a two-time childhood cancer survivor, and the Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation has been an incredible source of strength and support throughout her journey.
From the moment we connected with Arms Wide Open, we felt a true sense of care and understanding. What stood out most was how personal their support is. They didn’t just offer general help; they made sure we felt seen, heard, and connected. Through Arms Wide Open, we met other families who truly understood what we were going through. That sense of community became a lifeline for us during some of the most difficult moments.
Dena Sherwood, the founder, brings unmatched compassion and purpose to this organization. Her own experience as a cancer mom fuels her commitment to making real change, not only by supporting families emotionally but through unwavering advocacy and dedicated funding of safer, less toxic treatment options. Arms Wide Open is deeply committed to creating a brighter and healthier future for children battling cancer.
We are so grateful to be part of the Arms Wide Open community. Their work gives families like ours hope and a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this fight.
Arms Wide Open Childhood Can er Foundation is an amazing organization with the mission to help families who are battling cancer. The founder; Dena has had personal experience with her son having pediatric cancer and therefore has dedicated her life to helping others who undergo similar journeys. She brings positivity and hope to people she meets.
We were blessed to of met the amazing Dena Sherwood and her Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation at Curefest in DC years ago. As a childhood cancer org from WV we learned that first year at Curefest that AWOCC was and is an amazing org that works tirelessly to make sure all the cancer kids and families are taken care of. AWOCC takes care of families financially, to caring for those families that have lost a child to the funding of research to their launch of THRIVE, Dena’s love and compassion for these cancer kids and families goes without saying. The team she has behind her all work hard to fulfill the mission of AWOCC. Blessings.
Arms Wide Open is an amazing foundation with a heart of gold for all kids fighting cancer. From funding pediatric research to offering family support to leading bereavement retreats to being the lead for CureFest each year in Washington, DC, Arms Wide Open is touching every aspect of the childhood cancer journey.
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Arms Wide Open is a amazing foundation that gives cancer families so much hope and joy. They gave my son an amazing opportunity to something that he would have never gotten to do. There are no word to thank them for all they do for kids and their family's.
This foundation has been a major part of my life since I was around 8 years old and has given me a platform to be an advocate for children with cancer and childhood cancer siblings like myself. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have had to share my story with others because it’s through that I have been able to heal and process my own experience with childhood cancer. Arms Wide Open is an incredible organization and they have become an integral part in the childhood cancer community. Its initiatives The Truth 365, Dance Hope Cure, and more are important for ensuring advocacy and giving children a voice. It’s been a blessing to be a part of this foundation and it is one of the greatest honors of my life.
This organization never fails to bring together the childhood cancer world like no one else can. Their commitment to spreading awareness and advocating for research funding is relentless l.
Dena with Arms Wide Open is one of the best humans, I have ever come in contact with. All of the AWOCC team is amazing. Dena took me under her wing and allowed me to be a fund under her organization, which allowed me to create awareness and honor my son Grayson, who passed away from brain cancer in 2021 because of her generosity and kindness I've been able to raise funds and help families in the fight and also fund research, Dena does not stop and is selfless in her work and continues to amaze me and many others around her. This charity organization helps so many people and so many families. Grateful for all the work that they do.
As a volunteer at Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, I've had an incredible experience with the organization. I find them very passionate about their cause and dedicated to their mission.
Wonderful organization run by great folks who are truly looking to make a difference, and not just but helping monetarily during treatment but for those who make it to survivorship by setting up events to try to help these kids adapt to surviving and coping with the aftermath and effects of cancer. Cant say enough good things about them. However our family can say we are forever grateful.
Dena Sherwood and the Arms Wide Open foundation helped our family so much when my daughter was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. They helped relieve some of our financial burdens when we were going through the most difficult time in our lives so we could focus on our child. They held bereavement retreats that helped our family when we lost our daughter in 2013. They always made us feel that we were never alone. We can never thank them enough for all they have done. They hold a special place in our hearts.
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Dena Sherwood and Arms Wide Open was one of the first organizations who helped us when our daughter Brooke was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma a childhood cancer. When we were thrown into the unknown, Dena came to our rescue with her love, experience, guidance and support. She gave us hope. Arm Wide Open advocates for our children. The money they raise provided my child as well as so many children with new trials that would otherwise not be at our disposal. Our hearts will always be grateful for this woman who has a heart of gold and this organization who whenever we were in need, didn’t hesitate to help.
Arms Wide Open provides opportunities for research to be funded for terminal pediatric cancers, like DIPG, that don't get much federal funding. Smaller funds are also created, like my daughter's fund, under the umbrella of Arms Wide Open and are afforded the same opportunities...to fund pediatric research and trials. This is so very important because without the funding research cannot continue, trials cannot be active and a cure will not be found.
So proud to share just some of the incredible work of Arms Wide Open. Arms Wide Open provides bereavement retreats for families that have lost a child to cancer. This is a very tender poulation and Arms Wide Open and Dena provide weekend retreats of love, compassion and remembrance. They also support other great programs in the childhood cancer community. We thank them for all the do! ❤️
I first heard of Arms Wide Open when it first started and I was following children with cancer. I have since made it my mission to advocate as much as I can for these precious people.
This is a group I follow and feel very strongly about
Arms Wide Open is a dedicated foundation committed to fight for a cure for childhood cancer. They are the voice and strength for the children and families effected by this disease that attacks the most vulnerable of patients. I watched first hand as Dina saved my nephew’s life by advocating for him and getting him into a clinical trial that is now successfully saving countless children and adults lives. He walk into the hospital at 3 years old with a 3% survival rate. He is now a healthy and happy cancer free 16 year old.
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Such a beautiful foundation that helps families and also who fights for childhood cancer awareness. Dena Sherwood is the light to so many by using her voice to help others.
The childhood cancer community is the community no one ever wants to join. But it is a string, supportive, passionate community.
Arms Wide Open and Dena are are HUGE part of that making our community strong.
My daughter was diagnosed in 2018. I’ve witnessed our community coming together and growing stronger through our adversities and grief. Arms Wide Open has brought so many organizations together. We all have one purpose… to defeat childhood cancer FOREVER.
Curefest is an amazing event. We’ve not yet been able attend in person and hope to this year. But even if we can’t be there in person we know the virtual event will be just as powerful.
Thank you, Dena. Thank you Arms Widd Open… for all that you do for our cups good cancer community
Dena Sherwood makes Arms Wide Open one of my favorite charities. She secures grants to fund pediatric cancer research. This research is so needed to help secure better outcomes with less toxic side effects for children. But, not only does she work tirelessly to secure funds, she shares stories so we can walk and support families. She has created a community with her efforts and this charity. She supports families on a monthly basis and uses every dollar wisely. In a world where you are not clear if you donations to non-profits have an impact, with Arms Wide Open, I fully trust that every dollar makes a difference.
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I got to know Dena by reading the story of her son Billy, "No Retreat, No Surrender". I reached out to her to learn more about what she was doing with Arms Wide Open and became a donor. They fund research and grants, generate awareness for childhood cancer and help struggling families financially. They create care packages and are a supportive community for families. When a friend's granddaughter was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, Dena was there to help that family. This is an altruistic organization run with love, compassion and support. They do good by children and families and continue to have an impact. They have my vote and support as one of the best non-profits out there.
After losing our beloved son to childhood cancer, Arms Wide Open was there to give us the support that we needed to help guide us through our grief. I could not thank them enough for the programs and services that they provided for cancer families like ours.
I learned of the Sherwood family’s incredible story starting with Billy’s diagnosis from his cousins while giving haircuts at the children salon I worked at. Eventually Billy himself became my customer & I learned more about childhood cancer through Dena & her sister Linda. Several years in a row they invited me to help raise money at their Shave for a Cure event in NYC. I was so inspired & impressed with the foundation & the survivors who bravely told their stories & educated us on what needs to be done to eradicate this awful disease. God bless everyone involved & affected by childhood cancer.
After my son, Kyle passed away from leukemia 7 years ago, we set out to fulfill his wish of ending childhood cancer. A friend mentioned AWOCCF/T365 and I sent an email through the website. Dena called me right away and I cannot say in words how much this amazing woman has done to support me, my family and our ability to make a difference in memory of our son. We started Kyle's Crusaders and an annual fundraising walk to raise money for Arms Wide Open for pediatric cancer research. Dena, has opened her arms to us and has supported us through all aspects of our fundraising journey. We have raised over $200K and helped fund several pediatric research grants in Kyle's memory. We are so blessed to be able to channel our grief to help others and fulfill Kyle's wish. We love Dena and all the amazing folks at Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation who selflessly give of their hearts, time & energy to end childhood cancer. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all that you have done and continue to do for our children. We love you!
Four years ago, the Swirls Around the World Family attended our very first CureFest For Childhood Cancer. CureFest has become one of our most treasured family traditions. Each year becomes more special, powerful, moving, and memorable. The connections we have made at CureFest have become our family. They are the greatest blessings in our lives. And this is all made possible by the incredible Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation and their team of heroes, lead by a family of warriors and inspired by a pediatric cancer survivor.
The Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation lives up to their name every single day- they open their arms to all families and offer support in all areas: from funding groundbreaking research projects and grants, providing support to families through hope & healing bereavement retreats and financially through Helping Hands, to starting a worldwide movement in the fight against pediatric cancer, uniting the world as one voice. And so much more.
AWOCCF is the guiding light in the fight against childhood cancer, while providing comfort and hope to families every step of the way. It is our greatest honor to support this incredible organization. Thank you AWOCCF for your everyday amazing and life-changing work. You are so loved and appreciated beyond words!
The Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation holds a special place in my heart. When I think of the AWOCCF, I think of compassion, creating awareness, helping families, dedication, supportive, endless hope & love. I’m happy to partner with Dena and her amazing organization to make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.
Caring and loving people that made it their goal to help bereaved families heal and raise awareness for childhood cancer. Can’t thank you enough for your work and dedication.
As Dena's neighbor, we learned of sweet little Billy's unimaginable diagnosis of cancer.
As a Christian, I am inspired, humbled and awe struck of Dena's Faith, Valor and Strength.
As a Supporter, I am Honored to be a small part of this Outstanding foundation.
God continue to Bless the Sherwood family as they continue to shine the Brightest Light!
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Dena and her family, work tirelessly and with valor, to ensure no family has to go through childhood cancer alone......Her Faith, Compassion, Dedication, and Commitment are second to none! In a world full of so much ugly, Dena is Light, and an inspiration to all! Keep up the good work my priceless friend! BRAVO!
The 1Voice Foundation has had the privilege of knowing Dena Sherwood for over 5 years. She is an incredible advocate for pediatric cancer families and the issues that they face. Dena is extremely dedicated and compassionate. She herself has experienced childhood cancer in her own family when her son Billy was diagnosed. She shares her journey by helping so many other families dealing with all the struggles of having a child with cancer.
Arms Wide Open not only funds pediatric cancer research, they assist families financially with grants to help with the devastating financial impact that this disease has on a family.
Arms Wide Open Hosts bereavement retreats across the Country, to bring families together who are dealing with the loss of a child to pediatric cancer. I am a pediatric oncology social worker and have Co Hosted o bereavement retreat with Arms Wide Open and have seen first hand how beneficial and supportive the retreats are. I myself lost my 9 year old son Jay to childhood cancer and appreciate Arms Wide Open supporting bereaved families.
Arms Wide Open sponsors and Hosts Curefest each September in Washington DC. It is the largest gathering of pediatric cancer families, non profits and advocates in the Country. (Probably the world) The event raises awareness and allows for networking at the National level.
The 1Voice Foundation is proud and honored to support Arms Wide Open.
I sponsored the first Walk-A-Thon for Dena's son, Billy, and have raised money for this organization through my business. I cannot speak more highly for the tireless work Dena and this organization puts in to fighting childhood cancer. She is an inspiration to all who meet her. There are very few people in this world that elevate humanity to the level she has done. I am humbled to call her friend and so deeply touched by the work she has done. Her strength is her faith and the power of her faith shines in everything she does. God will continue to bless Arms Wide Open.
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I witnessed the start of this organization from the very beginning when Dena Sherwood's son Billy was diagnosed with cancer. Not only has Dena and her organization raised money for childhood cancer, but she has inspired her community to do more, to be more, and to care more. When we open our hearts and arms and minds to helping others, particularly those most vulnerable, we change our world. Dean and Arms Wide Open have done that with great enthusiasm, laser focus, and an unrelenting commitment to serving children who most need our help. Praise their work!
AWOCCF is a beautifully run non profit organization that helps families and their children. AWOCCF is committed to starting a national movement to give children with cancer & their families a voice, to give them hope, & to raise awareness globally. Dena Sherwood provides loving support for all who are suffering with childhood cancer. She is a remarkable dedicated woman & I am so proud to know her !
AWOcc is a beautifully run charity organization which helps so many families. It needs more funding.
I’m so glad I found them. In the darkest days of our grief over the loss of our precious son, a random social media post led me to Arms wide open and to a phone call with Dena Sherwood. With her encouragement and connections to the pediatric cancer research realm, Dena gave us the most wonderful gift...a way to honor our son. After that fateful call, our family organized an annual 5K in memory of our son and we have since raised $80k for the benefit of pediatric cancer research via AWO. Because of her encouragement and connections, we were able to rise up out of our grief and do something positive in his precious name. I don’t even want to think about where I’d be if Arms Wide Open hadn’t given us this amazing opportunity to remember our son. Our precious Cooper fought multiple cancers for 6 long years and, thanks to AWO, his battle against pediatric cancer continues.
I've had the opportunity to work with many childhood cancer advocates and foundations over the past ten years and Arms Wide Open CCF ranks up there at the top. They commit and they follow through always. They have been instrumental in helping so many families, kids battling cancer, foundations and tenacious in their desire to create change that will result in cures for children battling cancer. In addition to supporting research, families and kids they have also been a major participant in spreading awareness about the needs of childhood cancer research. Curefest will be 10 years old in 2021 and Arms Wide Open is the reason that it will see that 10th Anniversary. It has grown bigger each year and gives foundations and families the chance to work together and know they are not alone in this battle to change the picture for kids and to make childhood cancer research a #nationalpriority! Thank you Arms Wide Open for all you do each day to change this picture for kids battling cancer.
Through it all.. Arms Wide Open was there for our daughter Brooke... and our family. Our baby girl fought cancer for nearly 5 years and AWOCCF was there for her. Family financial support, Mom self care, help with flights, resources, helping advocate on Capitol Hill... and even family bereavement services 5 years after our baby girl went to be in the arms of Jesus.... Arms Wide Open has been there for us through it all.
We
Love
AWOCCF
and remain forever grateful.
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AWOCCF is an organization with MORE heart and compassion than any other organization I know. They provide families of kids with cancer loving support and endless hope with the pediatric cancer trials they fund. If you don’t know where to give to make a difference, look here first. They will not stop until cancer stops taking our babies too soon. We are proud to have been able to partner with them indefinitely.
I have been a part of Arms Wide Open since the beginning, both as a donor and prior board member. The inception of this foundation has been to raise money for research and to help families experiencing financial hardship while dealing with watching their child suffer from cancer. I have seen first hand how many families and children have benefited from the hard work and determination of it’s founder. Everything they do is from her heart ❤️
Awoccf is an amazing foundation that raises so much awareness and funds and helps so many children and families impacted by childhood cancer! Including ours , with its support of grieving siblings and families with their bereavement retreats. God bless all they do!
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Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation is a wholeheartedly dedicated foundation that truly cares about each and every child and their families, and work so hard in raising money to find research to help find cures and bring comfort to families affected by cancer and for families that have lost a child to cancer. Dena Sherwood has a heart of gold. My son Evan passed away from Medullomyoblastoma brain cancer 10 days after his fifth birthday, Dena and her foundation have offered a bereavement remembrance weekend to families that have lost a child. We all comfort eachother and the support is huge. This foundation is a blessing and I know they go above and beyond to help fund treatments bring awareness and give support to those in need. Thank you Arms wide open.
I am inspired, humbled, and grateful, for every ounce, of everything this foundation is, and stands for! I’ve never been more impressed! The honor, integrity, and Love that shines forth from Arms Wide Open, is second to none! I’m honored to be an active supporter of this amazing cause!
I found out about Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation several years ago when I met Dena Sherwood at the Curefest event in Washington, D.C. The tireless effort that this organization expends to support a greatly underserved population, children and families tragically impacted by childhood cancer, is a model of compassionate outreach and grace. Whether providing direct, tangible, practical relief and emotional support to families or lobbying our nation’s leaders to raise awareness of the needs of these precious children, Arms Wide Open is at the forefront of the battle for the lives of our children. They are such a huge blessing for so many who are fighting through this unimaginable struggle. Five stars is not enough.
Great NFP- great fundraising and use of funds! Always quick to respond and seek out how they can help families and fund research!
Working with Dena on the Southwest Hope and Healing Retreat for the past two years has been a joy! Unfortunately, due to COVID, we had to postpone this year’s retreat to Aug, 2021. Dena is very genuine, caring, and works hard to help families who have children being treated for cancer. Arms Wide Open also finds much needed research for neuroblastoma. Dena is an inspiration to me, as I lost my daughter in 1999 to neuroblastoma, and have a non-profit in Tucson, helping childhood cancer patients and their families.
Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, Inc. is an outstanding foundation supporting children and families who face childhood cancer. Their collaborative approach sets an example of what can be done when we work together to conquer an important issue. The American Cancer Society #GoldTogether for childhood cancer initiative is proud to be a supporter and participant in the annual national CureFest USA event in Washington D.C. The mission to make childhood cancer research a national priority by uniting the childhood cancer community, the general public, the medical community, and our elected leaders is fully embraced during this national event founded and executed by Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation.
I witnessed my dear friend start this foundation. Her heart, grit and determination have made this group what it is today. Putting families and survival and grief support all in one. Proud yo call her my friend ❤️
I have witnessed first hand the incredible work AWOCCF does for bereaved families and the difference they make in their lives. It is with love, dedication and hard work they are changing the coarse of people’s lives and making a difference in the study and research of pediatric cancers.
I reached out to Dena about my son Sergio. She was very helpful and gave me great advice. I love this foundation because it helps inspire cancer kids and families that need help. It is a wonderful organization.
Arms Wide Open welcomes pediatric cancer families in need with "open arms". Supporting families at all stages of cancer, including families who may be grieving. I'm grateful to be able to collaborate with Dena and Arms Wide Open to to support childhood cancer families. A truly amazing partner!
Arms Wide Open Is always there for The Warriors to lend Support in EVERY Way They were there for My Grandson Austin as he battled Neuroblastoma. Thanks to Dena Sherwood who guided My Family to the Best care at MSKCC. Austin has been in REMISSION going on 2 Years July25. For This We are Forever Grateful
I spoke with Dena Sherwood from Arms Wide Open shortly after my 16 year old son died from leukemia. Finding a charity that focuses on pediatric cancer research wasn’t hard but finding one that would allow 100% of donations to go to research and was personally overseen by the most caring woman I’ve ever met was. I felt so comfortable with Dena and AWOCCF’s mission that I’ve been fundraising for them for five years now to help fulfill my sons wish for a cure to pediatric cancer. AWOCCF is a wonderful organization led by a compassionate, determined and committed team who put kids and their families first. I can’t thank them enough for allowing me the opportunity to help others in my sons memory.
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I lost my 16-year-old son to leukemia last year. Always thinking of others, he told me of his wish for a cure for childhood cancer. I wasn't sure where to start but knew that my mission in life was now to fulfill my son's wish. I heard about Arms Wide Open from a friend and contacted Dena Sherwood about how I could help them raise money for pediatric cancer research.
Dena called me right away and I felt like I was talking to a long-lost friend. She helped me understand what AWOCCF does to support children and their families and how I can make a difference in memory of my son. I knew from the moment that we spoke that this amazing woman was a compassionate champion for our children. Having known her now for over a year, I am even more impressed with her commitment, leadership and desire to make childhood cancer a national priority.
I can't tell you how rewarding it is to know that the funds we raise in memory of my son are helping researchers discover new and less destructive therapies and will ultimately lead to a cure for all childhood cancers. AWOCCF lets me know exactly what research grants they are funding right down to the type of cancer, the name of the doctor and the hospital where the research is being done. Amazing!
Cancer robbed my son of his life and our family of one of the most kindhearted and loving kids ever to walk the face of this earth. AWOCCF has given me a way to channel my grief into action, honor my son's memory, and help to fulfill his wish to end childhood cancer.
I became involved with this foundation when it first began after my cousin was diagnosed with cancer. Arms Wide Open has been such a blessing. I have met so many incredible individuals, families, children and doctors. I have met childhood cancer warriors who advocate while still fighting and some who have unfortunately passed away, but regardless their voices still resonate daily. This foundation changes lives of so many. Knowing all of those involved and that I have crossed paths with and being able to play a role in AWOCCF has changed my life for the better.
This is an amazing organization that makes a real difference in the fight against childhood cancer; providing funding for cures, creating awareness, helping families and being a voice for the youngest of our citizens.
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Arms Wide Open is an amazing nonprofit...from funding innovative clinical trials, to spreading awareness through the Truth365 or uniting the childhood cancer community at CureFest...this is a mission driven foundation. My family and I have seen and felt the profound effect that this wonderful organization has on families as they fight and heal. Thank you Arms Wide Open and Dena Sherwood for all that you do.
Beau Hester
There are many charities out there...know which to choose...I would choose Arms Wide open because they truly care for the families they take care of ...they are honest and caring...Everyone is included, the siblings and mom and dad...all so important...Dena Sherwood is a true blessing in this world, we need more like her.
God Bless you Dena and Arms Wide Open, keep making a positive change in this world of Childhood Cancer. we are blessed to have you
When we were in the middle of a financially devastating time, after our daughter was diagnosed with cancer for the 2nd time, we reached out to Arms Open Wide. They were so compassionate and quick to respond. We appreciated their generosity more than we could ever explain. ❤️ Our daughter is healthy once again. Thank you!!
Such an important foundation for children battling cancer. Arms Wide Open Children’s Cancer Foundation a VOICE for our children and an amazing support system helping these children and their family’s get through and fight the fight.
This charity goes above and beyond not just to get the message out about Childhood Cancers but to support the childhood cancer community as well as research. I love them and will always be there for them.
Full of love, support and educational. Professional yet and personal enough to know they care about us.
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We have benefited from the amazing outreach to bereaved parents and families. After my teenaged son passed away from his cancer, my daughter managed to find out about a weekend put on for bereaved families run by AWOCCF. I didn't want to go, didn't want to be there, BUT I felt so supported and loved throughout the weekend. Amazing group that truly cares about childhood cancer patients and their families.
This is an amazing foundation headed by an even more amazing woman!
As a Bereaved Parent who lost my daughter to Childhood Cancer, I’ve been to 3 of their Bereavement Retreats.
Dena does a fabulous job of not only promoting awareness and helping to find cancer research but she does amazing things for us bereaved parents also!
I can’t say enough about this organization and how helpful it’s been to me and my family.
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We lost our baby girl to Childhood Cancer a little over a year ago. Shortly after she passed we went to an Arms Wide Open Bereavement Retreat. We felt such love and support. They care so much about the families impacted by Childhood Cancer and do so much for people who are still fighting as well as those of us who lost our children. I truly cannot give enough praise and thanks to this foundation.
So grateful for the constant love, compassion and support of this organization. It makes us all a part of something bigger and we are better together!
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This organization goes above and beyond, every time. I have experienced a night for mom's at the RMDHNYC, Curefest, and two Bereavement Retreats. The details that go into everything they do means the world to us. The love and support is always abundant and the connections made between families through these events will last a lifetime. Thank you for all that you do Dena and Arms Wide Open!
I have participated in programming sponsored by this foundation for the last 4 years. I recently was able to take advantage of a bereavement retreat for families impacted by Childhood Cancer. It was elegant, compassionate, caring and full of love.
Before my son passed away from leukemia in 2015, he expressed to me his desire for there to be a cure for childhood cancer. In his memory, I wanted to find a way to make his wish a reality in the only way I knew I could and that is to fundraise for pediatric cancer research.
I researched many non-profits to raise money for but was disappointed that a good chunk of fundraising money went to administrative costs. A friend told me about AWOCCF and I reached out. Dena spent an hour on the phone with me sharing her story, her foundation mission and encouraging me to do what I was comfortable doing. It was a great match! I can now fundraise and be confident that the donations from our supportive community are going to research -100% and Dena makes sure of that. She's amazing and tremendously supportive.
AWOCCF and it's founder, Dena, have hearts of gold. I've met so many supportive people that have helped me navigate this new reality I find myself in.
We just returned from a bereaved parents retreat put on by Arms Wide Open. I didn't want to be there because of the reason I was there but it was just what I needed. A chance to connect with other grieving families without judgement and with understanding and compassion. We are so grateful to have been there and hope we can attend in the future.
I had the opportunity to attend two bereavement retreats hosted by Arms Wide Open foundation, and the impact on me has been immeasurable. All that this foundation and it’s volunteers give so humbly and graciously to those of us who have lost children to cancer is gratefully accepted and treasured. I am so grateful for the connections i have made with other grieving mamas through the work of this foundation. They provide so much needed Goodness ❤️.
My daughter and I have attended the Arms Wide Open Bereavement Retreat a few times. It has given us the opportunity to meet families who understand and create friendships with these families. Dena and the whole crew do such an amazing job!
They are one of the best. They come along parents, support them both physically as well as spiritually. They walk the course with those they come alongside and get to know every person they support. Outstanding group.
AWOCC is an organization run by people who are heaven sent...angels on earth who have hearts of gold!
I decided to write this review because I am so impressed by and grateful for the way AWOCCF has really focused in on the work needed to improve outcomes and quality of life for children with cancer. First, AWOCCF is funding the types of clinical trials that lead to more effective therapies and less toxic therapies – so crucial, because such new therapies are the only way more children can survive and also have healthy future lives. And not only does AWOCCF do its own fundraising, but it's communicating this desperate need to a much wider population with its very powerful Truth 365 media campaign. In addition, by co-hosting the annual Curefest event in DC, AWOCC brings pediatric cancer stakeholders together and facilitates more effective, more coordinated advocacy for the cause. Finally, and equally important, AWOCCF is giving direct support to the families actually going through pediatric cancer, with its financial assistance and variety of wellness programs. Keep up the excellent work, AWOCCF, and many, many thanks from a "cancer mom"!!
Arms Wide Open has been there through thick and thin when ever a family fighting cancer is in need. Dena Sherwood and her volunteers are truly angels on earth...God Bless you all.
When my Grandson was first Diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma not only did Dena reach out to our family but she contacted doctors at sloan and was able to get us in contact with the doctors who ultimately saved his life with their protocols . Arms wide open childhood cancer foundation also provided us with some financial assistance as well as a place to go for information on new and existing options out there that might benefit our grandson.
I found A.W.O.C.C.F to be more than a foundation that help meet the needs of many cancer families through their many outreaches but a foundation with a human touch .
Dena is an incredible support to families that are going through and living out neuroblastoma diagnosis. She was our life line when our son was first diagnosed feeding us with hope and helping us make connections to get the best care possible. We are eternally grateful for her and all this foundation does to help families in crisis.
Absolutely incredible pediatric cancer organization that supports not only research but the families directly affected by this insidious disease. Our family is so grateful for all that they do to support pediatric cancer research!
My favorite charity! Helpful, willing, called, responsive, supportive, loving and overall amazing. Arms Wide Open has helped countless families and given them HOPE. I love them and everything they stand for.
Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation has been the driving force in uniting Childhood Cancer organizations across the country and around the word to to come together to raise awareness of this devastating disease. Their passion and commitment is like no other. It is through them and the vision of Dena Sherwood that Curefest in Washington, DC came to life. This is now the largest Childhood Cancer event in the nation every year, bringing together tens of thousands of people together with one goal, to raise awareness and educate the public of the need to find a cure for children everywhere. All of this along with funding vital research and supporting families with children in the battle as well as those who have lost their beloved child makes Arms Wide Open a 5 Star foundation.
Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation was there for us so that we could be there for our child. They lifted a financial burden to allow us to focus only on getting Luke the best possible care. Not only did they support us financially but they also helped to fund the clinical trials that saved his life. AWOCCF were there for us in two very different ways, both of which were instrumental in my son’s healing. The personal financial support was quick and tangible but the clinical trial funding helped us in a way that can never be repayed and for that we will always be grateful.
Have always been informative to my son, Bill. Our grandson, Luke, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in late January, 2018
Our son, Nico, passed away after a 7 year battle with childhood cancer. It rocked our family to the core and left us feeling alone in our grief. Losing a child after watching them go through things no one should have to endure is traumatizing. A few months after he passed we attended AWO's Hope and Healing Bereavement Retreat where my husband and I met other parents who experienced that same loss and that same trauma. Not only that but our girls met other siblings who had the same experience in losing a sibling. Our family was able to connect with others we could truly relate to and spend time as a family and honor our son and brother. Thank you AWO for that priceless gift.
Arms Wide Open is a complete collaborative nonprofit. Without any credit wanted, they work with so many others to advance childhood cancer causes. They are very active in creating legislative changes by going through the halls of the Capitol to talk to legislators. They provide a huge voice for the childhood cancer community and act as a gathering point for the various other organizations.
My sisters and I are childhood friends of Dena Sherwood (Founder of Arms Wide Open). This woman is selfless, helping everyone and anyone that needs it. Her charity has raised MILLIONS of dollars for cancer research. I can’t imagine a better charity to support.
From pediatric cancer awareness to research funding to practical support to hope and healing in the wake of the loss, this organization is fueled by pure love and passion and has help available every step of the way.
I volunteer when I can.... I have known the founder of this foundation for at least 8 years now.... I used to volunteer for the Wellness Night at The Ronald McDonald House in NYC...... Dena has and continues to help so many children with cancer... the founder of this foundation is an incredible person who lives for these kids!!!!!! This foundation deserves nothing but the best bc they are the best!!!!!!
Arms wide open brought us on a bereavement retreat that helped us begin working through losing our 8 year old son, Dominic, to brain cancer. We are looking forward to returning to the retreat which felt like a safe place with others that understand our heartache.
Dena goes above and beyond to provide support to families affected by childhood cancer. She truly cares about the kids and families involved. Outstanding foundation.
This organization has done some truly amazing things for children battling cancer and their families! The founder and her family has lived through what other families who have children with cancer are living through, so they completely understand what they are going through.
They really do so much for the families of someone that has been unfortunately diagnosed with cancer. Such a wonderful organization that I love to donate to.
I am proud to donate to Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, Inc. to support their mission to fund less toxic therapies, to aid families, and to raise awareness through their many initatives.
After our daughter, Bryanna, passed from ETP-ALL, a rare and aggressive form of leukemia, we were barely treading water. We were trying to cope with the devastating hole in our hearts, life and home while still making sure that our two younger kids, Evey and Liam were okay and that they knew they mattered. Just when we felt like we were drowning, we took a chance and attended a bereavement breakfast hosted by awo. That lead to an invitation to their bereavement retreat as a family. For the first time since Bryanna died, we felt like we had a life line. The love, support and understanding that this amazing organization has offered then, and continue to offer now is amazing. When we feel like we are barely floating, they are there. Each and every time. We have found a family that understands the experiences that we have had through Bryanna's cancer diagnosis, treatment and death. The experiences are certainly unique in our own way, but the love and support that they extend leaps beyond any wall, any difference and offers unconditional, no strings attached support, love and connection. I would highly recommend this foundation to families dealing with a childhood cancer diagnosis.
Dena and her family are just amazing. My son's friend, 10 at the time, was diagnosed with cancer. Dena stopped what she was doing and reached out to the boy's mother. She put her in touch with Dr's and gave her guidance. We are forever thankful. Nick is now cancer free.
Childhood cancer is the #1 disease related killer of kids in the U.S. and the incidence of childhood cancer has been steadily rising. Despite compelling statistics childhood cancer research is vastly and consistently underfunded. Arms Wide Open CCF is one of the great non-profits that steps up to try to fill the gap in lack of funding for research, for families and they work to create awareness regarding the needs of childhood cancer. Arms Wide Open not only donates money to research but helps families in tremendous ways. This organization is also at the forefront in so many ways trying to tell the story and create advocacy that will result in more funding for childhood cancer research. For the past four years Arms Wide Open has hosted CureFest in Washington DC to bring other non-profits, individuals and organizations together to give ONE VOICE to kids battling cancer. With the support of Arms Wide Open this annual event has grown from a few organizations and people to thousands. They not only talk the talk but they walk the walk and are making a huge difference in the battle to help kids and find treatments and cures to combat this insidious disease called childhood cancer. With the help of non-profits like Arms Wide Open we look forward to the day when a doctor will say, the bad news is your child has cancer, the good news is we have a cure.
Well ,First I wanna Thank the members of awoccf for personally helping my family get through extremely difficult times in dealing with childhood cancer. Second, this foundation is very near and dear to my heart not only for what they have done for my family but, also what they have strived for and accomplished in the advancements of treatments being less toxic and more effective. I will hopefully be attending more of their events and outtings in the future. Hats off to you awoccf! And thank you for everything you have done for us Dena Sherwood. The Lord is using you how he intended and it's obvious by the success of this foundation. Please keep up the phenomenal job you guys and gals are doing, when it seems like the odds are not in our favor! We need more then 4%!
Rarely, if ever, has there been a more aptly named foundation. I have worked closely with AWO and it's founder on several occasions and projects including, but not limited to, a now international grassroots "movement" to bring awareness to the travesty that is childhood cancer treatment in this country today. I have never met a more dedicated group who leave no stone unturned nor say no to ANYTHING that will help a child with cancer and their families. I stand firmly behind AWO, their mission and the selfless way with which they carry it out.
-tattootom
The Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation is an amazing organization!! Last year, we went to their Hope and Healing Retreat with other families that lost children to cancer. Dena and her family are incredibly kind and compassionate people. This foundation is funding so many incredible research trials for pediatric cancers. They are providing so much awareness about childhood cancer through social media. They help on every front and we thank them for all they do.
Our family has been changed by this organization and their efforts to raise awareness for the lack of funding for children with cancer. They are truly moving the dial!
Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation is a blessing to the Childhood Cancer Community! Dena Sherwood works tirelessly to make sure families have the support they need when they get the devastating news that their child has cancer. Having walked in their shoes, the Sherwood family is able to empathize in a very personal way.
Among the many things they do, AWO is the parent organization of The Truth 365, a social media campaign that raises awareness of the plight of children facing cancer. The Truth 365 reaches thousands of people everyday, and could not happen without the support of Arms Wide Open. Another contribution that AWO makes every year is CureFest in Washington, DC. Each September, AWO/TT365 hosts this pinnacle event within the childhood cancer community, bringing together foundations and families from all over the country to be ONE VOICE for our kids! AWO also gives monthly grants to families in need, funds research grants for clinical trials, and hosts a free Bereavement Retreat for families who have lost a child to cancer. There are many childhood cancer foundations out there, but very few are touching as many lives as Arms Wide Open. The name suits this foundation perfectly. Dena Sherwood's arms are indeed WIDE open as she faithfully takes her lead from the depths of her heart and the direction of her heavenly father.
Arms Wide Open CCF is a foundation that truly cares about the community it serves. This message is driven down from the leadership to the volunteers and out to the children and families it serves in the childhood cancer community. The service offerings and fundraising initiatives are implemented at all levels to include legislative awareness, community outreach and involvement, research, bereavement retreats, empowering the next generation of young leaders to be advocates, be selfless, be compassionate, be vocal, and be present. I am honored to work with them when I can.
This is a charity that makes a difference not only in research, which they do, but to individual children fighting the cancer monster. Dena Sherwood, the founder, visits these warriors and their families and fulfills the smallest wants and the greatest needs. She is an angel on earth. Her tireless fundraising and awareness campaigns leave all who know her and this incredible foundation in awe.