Children's Cancer Connection

I have been involved with Children's Cancer Connection for 11 years and each day I love this organization more and more. The services provided for families are outstanding and essential for this population. Camp Heart Connection is one of the best experiences not only for the families served, but for the volunteers as well. Children's Cancer Connection will continue to hold a special place in my heart and I will always be searching for ways to give back to this organization.

Children's Cancer Connection is an amazing non-profit that keeps its promise and supports the whole family during the entire cancer journey. The staff there are the kindest and most selfless people who pour love into everything they do. I am forever grateful for this non-profit because they have changed my life in so many amazing ways. I recently graduated from their program, but I am beyond excited to come back and volunteer. I hope to create the same magic and safe place that the staff and volunteers provided for me when I attended events.

I have served on the board for Children’s Cancer Connection since 2022. I became aware of CCC through a co-worker whose child was diagnosed with cancer at age 13. I learned about some of the many services and support his family received - oncology, sibling and family camps provided free of charge to ensure all family members were meeting and commiserating with other families in the same situation, Back to School Bash provides school supplies to these families, Winter Wishes to provide Christmas gifts for the children and their siblings. I have volunteered at events that raise funds to ensure we are able to continue our mission. All of these programs require financial support to continue. I’m proud to donate funds to this worthy cause.

Children’s Cancer Connection has been such an amazing experience for my family and I. My brother was diagnosed and we felt that there eas no one that understood. Through this organization we find somewhere to put all the hurt and relate to eachother. Not only that but just to have fun and be kids!

I have been a part of Children's Cancer Connection for over 15 years. They supported my family through an extremely difficult period and to this day are a huge part of our lives. They provide kids an escape from their overwhelming lives, take weight off the parents shoulder, and help set up siblings/oncology kids a like for a future! They are more than activities and donations, Children’s Cancer Connection is a part of our family and a part of who I am today.

Children's Cancer Connection does an exceptional job delivering high-impact programs and services to our community's most deserving families. They operate efficiently, thoughtfully, and with a ton of heart. Hearing how much the organization's flagship programs--their summer camps--mean to the campers, giving them the space for fun and normalcy amongst other kids who "get it", is remarkable.

Children's Cancer Connection provides so many great resources to kids and families affected by childhood cancer. Camps for oncology kids, siblings, families, teen events, and parent support are all offered free to cost for any family with an Iowa connection (even if they move out of state). Getting to see kids at camp being kids or playing on the new playground at the House in Johnston is amazing, especially knowing how much the kids and their families go through as part of their medical treatment.

I have been a part of this organization for nearly 16 years. I started as an oncology kiddo that was benefiting from the amazing programs that CCC puts on. I have since volunteered nearly every. I now serve on the Board of Directors, and I get to help oversee CCC and the mission that I hold so closely to my heart. CCCs programming is incredibly important for both the oncology kids AND their siblings. We firmly believe that we need to support the entire family through their entire journey through cancer.

CCC is my favorite place to be! I have been a part of this organization as a youth board member, volunteer, and both sibling and survivor attendee, and there is no place I would rather be. CCC will always hold a special place is my heart, and all the people there are truly the best people you will ever meet ������

Children’s Cancer Connection is a wonderful group of people who create a welcoming and safe environment to be yourself and receive support and comfort. It’s a place to cultivate lifelong friendships, to care for others, and to be cared for. It’s an inspiring community that shows you how to truly appreciate life and live joyfully. It’s a home to many and a family to everyone.

My son was diagnosed with leukemia right after his 4th birthday. He has been attending Children’s Cancer Connection camps since he was 6 years old. He just graduated from High School and graduated from camp this summer. Children’s Cancer Connection provides so much fun, hope and love to children with cancer, their siblings and their families. Our children have been able to go to camp every year free of charge and connect with other cancer survivors and siblings of kids with cancer. They love camp and cry when it is time to leave. They have made lifelong friends, learned leadership skills through Leader in Training programs and have experienced things that we would never have been able to provide without the help of Children’s Cancer Connection.

My sister is a childhood cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 2. My entire family was served by Children's Cancer Connection via in-clinic programs, helpful resources and no-cost outings at which we met other families like ours. My sister spent years going to Oncology Camp for free, and met so many lifelong friends. My brother did the same at Sibling Camp. I was quite a bit older than my siblings, so I never attended Camp Heart Connection as a camper. I've been involved over the years as a volunteer, donor and staff member at CCC. What I've seen in my various roles is that CCC creates opportunities and environments for strangers to come together and almost instantly become lifelong friends - almost like a family. The unique programs and resources are also provided free of charge to participants. My family was low-income to begin with, so amid loss of jobs during treatment and medical/travel expenses, knowing that free programs were there for us was extra meaningful.

The whole family, for the whole journey. They really mean this. Lennox was diagnosed in 2020 and some of the most support we got was over the computer from these guys; always rooting for our dead Lennox. They provide events for families to do all while making sure both of my kids know they are important. We are beyond thankful for CCC

I have been a counselor for many summers! This is a place where kids with cancer can just be normal and have fun and not have to worry about treatment or their diagnosis! This place is amazing!

Dedicated to serving families affected by childhood cancer. Great organized events to raise funds & awareness!

Thank you Children's Cancer Connection for all you do for our families! This has been the one foundation that really focuses not only on the child with cancer, but also their siblings...and I can't tell you how thankful we are for all of the volunteers and donations that help provide activities and events to help them feel equally as important in this battle. Life after cancer isn't much easier. Their battle is never really over. Thank you for continuing to bring so much joy and smiles to our kids during and even after treatment and being such a bright light to our kids' lives. They absolutely love all of the activities and events that they get to continue to be part of and have helped us heal in so many ways. We appreciate all of the donors who continue to help families like ours.

Childrens Cancer Connection has been one of the most influential organizations to help heal and care for my family during our journey with our son's cancer journey. They attend to the whole picture of what it means to be a cancer family, are well liked and supported by hospital staff, and seem to always maintain positivity through times of uncertainty and hardship. Love, love this organization!

Children’s Cancer Connection was there for us immediately while my baby entered cancer treatment. They were not only concerned about him, but our whole family. This is important, because my other kids were impacted too. They provided support, gifts, and a caring shoulder for my entire family while we lived at the hospital. They host the camps, back to school bash and many other family centered programs that we look forward to attending. They help both while going through the worst time of your life and they don’t stop helping once you hit remission. They also raise awareness of all the kids in Des Moines area with the dedicated programs & fundraising. 5 Stars! Thank you Children’s Cancer Connection for being amazing!

This organization helped my family so much throughout my childhood cancer journey. Arguably, their summer camp program saved my life. Now that I am an adult I am able to give back and see the difference that it makes for kids in the same position I was.

I was a direct recipient of Children's Cancer Connection's services when I was younger. Being a teen diagnosed with cancer and going through treatments was really hard - but CCC's programs and services made life easier for myself and my family. In particular, their hallmark program Camp Heart Connection was always the highlight of my year, and to this day remains a favorite program to give my time and money too.

CCC has an incredibly talented and caring staff, focusing on all aspects of the needs of children with cancer, their families, and those who have lost a child or sibling to cancer. Their mission and values are front and center in everything they do, with care and consideration being given to dignity for all involved in a child with cancer's life.

Now that I am older, I continue to serve as a volunteer. I can't think of a better nonprofit to give my time and money to. CCC is a lifechanging nonprofit and my simple praise will never be enough to accurately describe the positive impact that they have on my life and the lives of many other families.

We love the services they offer. From diagnosis to after treatment, the CCC has helped us immensely.

I have worked with this organization for the past 4 years and see so much positive momentum happening! The staff is top notch and is always looking for ways to improve the experience for participants. I see a bright future!

Children's Cancer Connection truly is a special organization. The passion for supporting kids and families is evident at every level, from volunteers on up to the executive leadership. The programs they provide (Bravery Bucks, Oncology Camp, Beads4Bravery, and many more) are a bright spot in an otherwise very difficult journey for many families. CCC has a huge positive impact on the experience of children and families that are affected by childhood cancer and the organization's ability to remain so focused on it's mission is extremely impressive.

Children's Cancer Connection is a fantastic organization that uniquely supports the entire family for the entire journey. They offer many different programs suited for a wide variety of age groups and interests. The hallmark event every year is oncology camp and sibling camp. All my kids have had fantastic experiences at camp and look forward it going every year!

Children's Cancer Connection has been a part of my life ever since I was five. Children's Cancer Connection is an amazing organization that does amazing things for families that are going through or have gone through a hard time.

This organization has supported family and I through my cancer journey. I have made so many life long friends over the years. Also I have had so many opportunities for learning leadership and life skills.

Absolutely perfect! Everything that they did for us was absolutely life-changing. They helped the kids with cancer to just feel normal for a week which was just amazing. And they also helped the siblings because they don't get a lot of attention when a child is going through treatment. This is absolutely one of the best organizations that I have been a part of. The staff is very loving and caring and does a lot of good things to help these kids out. They are such an amazing group of people and would have never have wanted to volunteer for anything better. -Benny

CCC has helped my family in so many ways it’s hard to describe. Mainly, they’ve helped me find a community of people that share a similar experience and an opportunity to help kids find that community as a continued volunteer.

The employees at Children's Cancer Connection do a fantastic job supporting the kids and families throughout their journey with cancer. You will not find a more caring and passionate organization to help others than Children's Cancer Connection!

I have been involved with CCC for 33 years. I attended sibling camp as a child and my family has put on a golf tournament for 23 years to raise $$ for this great Organization. They were a huge part of helping me and my family deal with the loss of my brother Danny and they have helped countless other families in IA. I dream for a day that we find a cure, until that time it is extremely important that CCC continues to support families that have to deal with Childhood cancer

I've been around Children's Cancer Connection for over 10 years and during that time, I've witnessed how the organization's staff and volunteers have a major impact on the lives of families. The folks at CCC are laser focused on the mission and supporting the "entire family, the entire journey". The caring and compassion of the staff is inspiring. They look at everything in terms of how to best help families impacted by childhood cancer. Whether it is helping kids at summer camp or working with support groups, excellence is the standard! Thank you to the team at Children's Cancer Connection for making a real difference in our community!

My son, Ian, was diagnosed with leukemia at the end of last May. It was the most devastating thing that has ever happened to me in my life. I was so overwhelmed with emotion, and trying to deal with all the changes that became part of my life, and Cancer Connection helped with this. They provided a wonderful manual at the beginning of my son's diagnosis that helped me to better understand what he was going through, and helped me to find some coping strategies. Thing went along fine for several months, and then this winter I had an emotional relapse. I started to feel upset about my son's diagnosis again, even though things were still going well. I didn't understand this, and my confusion made me feel even worse. Cancer Connection was there for me again. They connected me with another mom who had a daughter with leukemia. We were able to meet and talk, and it helped me tremendously. Additionally, there is always someone from Cancer Connection at the oncology clinic to help the kids in the waiting area with crafts, games, etc. My son enjoys working with these volunteers and I'm thankful that they are willing to share their time to make our visit at the clinic (not my son's favorite place) a little more pleasant. Life changes in so many ways when your child is diagnosd with cancer. There are the obvious changes like hospital and clinic visits, and lost of medical bills, but there are also a lot of challenges that people don't think about as readily, such as the continual emotional roller coaster and strain to parents, dealing with side effects, and trying to help your child feel positive about an awful situation. Cancer Connection helps to fill the gap for these concerns.

All our children have attended the Heart Connection summer camps and programs since 1991. Our oldest son was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor when he was 5 years old. Less then a year after his surgery and radiation treatments (still in a wheel chair and with great reservations of letting him go for a week) we took him to the Heart Connection Summer Oncology Camp. It was the thrill of his summer and he continued to go every summer until he "graduated". Now he attends the "weekend" retreats for the older kids who are cancer survivors. He also volunteered a summer working in the arts and crafts.

His younger sister and brother also attended the sibling camps. All three thoroughly loved the fun they cherished during those weeks at the summer camps. They never missed attending a camp. It was their summer highlight. They made new friends who they may know for their lifetime. Our daughter is returning as a volunteer and hopes to use her RN experience and volunteer at the health lodge during the camp.

The fond memories the camp gives these children is unsurpassed and unforgettable! The Heart Connection Children's Cancer Connection programs makes a difference in a child's eyes and provides them with love to see some of the rainbows in life!

Children's Cancer Connection does so much to help families from the day they are diagnosed. They continue to be with the family for small celebrations and big ones.

Children's Cancer Connection makes you feel like family once you become a part of the organization.

We lost our daughter when she was 17 year old to cancer. She died to young and to keep her memory alive we have donated or purchased items from CCC in her honor. This group does awsome job of bringing joy to so many people in so many ways. If we stop funding research now we will lose more children and that just should not happen keep up the good work.

The environment CCC provides is amazing. I volunteered at sibling camp this past summer and the organization provides such a family like atmosphere for not only the children at camp but the staff as well. The siblings were able to spend a week in the spotlight! The camp also has so many traditions that I felt like it might be overwhelming for a new camper, but everyone there is so open to welcoming new members into this CCC "family".

Volunteering with Children's Cancer Connection is an emotionally rewarding experience. The children and families taught me more about life than one can possibly hope to learn on their own. They teach perseverance, acceptance, honesty, compassion, and respect, among many other things. Working with the camp programs was the highlight of my years as a counselor. Watching the children grow throughout the week of camp was an incredibly experience that I will take with me throughout life. My time with Children's Cancer Programs has confirmed my future career goal of working in pediatric oncology nursing. Heartfelt thanks to the children, families, and staff of CCC for making everyone's lives a little better.

My older sister was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was 11 years old, I was 8 and our brother was 5. We heard about the Heart Connection through the Blank Children's Hospital in Des Moines. In the summer of 1998 my sister went to camp for the first time in June. She came back with nothing but good things to say about it so my brother and I attended sibling week in July that same summer. From my very first day at camp I have made lifelong friends every time I go. These friends have always been my biggest support and most stable things in my life; especially after my sister passed away at age 15 in December 2000.

I must admit during my teenage years I got into quite a bit of trouble at home and the summer right before my senior year my parents told me I couldn't go to camp; that was the end of life as I knew it. I expressed to my parents how important it was that I went, camp was my therapy in life and without I would have gone crazy and ended up in a bad place. After talking with my parents they decided to let me go, they could tell over the previous 8 years of being a camper how much camp meant to me and my brother.

After I graduated high school I came back to camp as a volunteer, first on the kitchen staff (during the floods of 2008), then as a counselor, and last year on the Directors Team. Throughout the years I also have part-took in Stand Up to Cancer, the Annual Ski Trip, Walk to the Beat, and many other fundraisers. I know how important the Children's Cancer Connection is to me and how much it has helped me cope in life, so I try to give back to the organization as much as possible so other people just like me can get the love and support they need to make it through the battle against cancer.

My sister was diagnosed with Leukemia at age 9 (I was 8). Although I was distraught and extremely scared, I found comfort in knowing the Heart Connection was there as a support, along with my wonderful family. I was a camper, a counselor, and have volunteered for several events since I was 8 years old. Now that I am 30, I still find comfort in knowing the organization exists and is as strong as ever for children enduring the same bump in the road as I did. The Heart Connection is a wonderful organization with an amazing staff!

We have been a involved with the Children's Cancer Connection since 1989 when one of our 6 children was diagnosed with lukeamia. We have sent 4 children to camp and have had a child involved as a camper, volunteer couselor or paid staff program director every year since. The Children's Cancer Connection is very supportive of the entire family for the entire journey and even 20+ years of survival. We have all volunteered and supported this great organization. It makes the journey no one ever wants to take so much easier.

I first got involved with this fabulous charity when my brother had cancer some years ago and attended their annual summer camp. He had a great experience - it allowed him to get away from the disease for a week and just be a kid again. They do fabulous work!!

My grandson, Darick, has been attending the camp since he was 5 years old. He had leukemia and his mother (my daughter) started him in this camp as soon as she felt that he could handle it because of the great reputation. This was the best decision as Darick waits all year to attend a week where he can be with kids and counselors like himself and they can just be kids having fun. No one looks twice if they are on an IV or they are bald because they have all experienced this and through the camp they have learned compassion and life understanding of each other. When Darick returns from camp he tells us what he has done, but also how he feels about death and life. This is something that he doesn't share any other time and he has grown into such a caring young man. I have a feeling that he will want to be a counselor to help other young boys. We can't say enough about the professionalism of this camp and how important this camp is for all of the kids who attend.

This organization has helped us in so many ways. We are very greatful for all of the activities they have provided for our kids. The camp has helped both my boys understand and deal with the impact that cancer has put on their lives. Also, made them see that they are not alone and not feel insecure from the scars. They greatly enjoy the camp and mini-camp and cannot wait for the next to come. We love The Cancer Connection!

Children's Cancer Connection is an amazing organization run by some truly special people who go above and beyond the call of duty to work to improve the lives of children and families dealing with childhood cancer. When I lived in the Des Moines area, it was an honor to volunteer with them and I would encourage anyone capable of helping out this fantastic cause!

Children's Cancer Connection and their programs are a godsend to families! The volunteers are dedicated, wonderful caring individuals that are there to help the children and their families. My family participates in the Danny Joe Golf Tournament each June to raise money to help this worthy cause. Thank you for all you do! Karen - Danny Joe's aunt.

Children's Cancer Connection helped us from the very beginning of my son's cancer diagnosis. They gave us a backpack full of useful items that we needed for our journey through treatment plus fun things for my son. Then when summer came they provided him with Camp. He loved it!! They were great with him and he got to be with other kids that were going through the same thing. Camp provided him with skills he needed to be around others and work through his disabilities and give him some sense of normalcy. Children's Cancer Connection is a great organization that helps not only the children but their families. They help make the journey a lot more bearable for everyone involved. They are always so nice and willing to help with anything they can. My family has definately been blessed to have known the organization and the people!

My granddaughter was diagnosed with AAL in 2001 and spent several weeks in and out of Blank Children's Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. She is a healthy survivor, now 14 yrs old. She was treated like a princess by the 'Heart Connection' volunteers with all their fun activities for the patients and siblings. She has enjoyed summer camp every year, and her siblings have also. And the other fun shows like Lion King, Sesame Street, and many others, Adventureland Park. The list just goes on and on. This is a very deserving non-profit group. I give them a big 'thumbs up!!' for all they do.

My 12 year old son is a leukemia survivor. Although he is a cancer survivor he has lasting effects from the chemotherapy treatment. He has been attending summer camp via children's cancer connection since he was 5 years old. This camp provides one of the best (if not THE best) experience for him. He loves the camp, the counselors, his fellow campers and feels like it is a second home. He has the opportunity to talk with and interact with other kids who also have lasting effects due to cancer treatment. Heart Connection cancer camp allows him to see that he is not alone and gives him the opportunity to open up and connect with others at a very private emotional level. As he gets older he has become more sensative to his situation and how the world sees him. When at camp he is just one of the kids. Camp is a soft place to land and fires him up and makes it possible for him to continue to face his daily challenges. I just can't say enough about Children's Cancer Connection, the organization and the services they provide. Without camp we would be crushed!!!!! This organization is the absolute best!!!!!!!!

I've been involved with Children's Cancer Connection for the past 12 years as a camper at Heart Connection. Not only is it one of my absolute favorite places on Earth, but it is a wonderful program that has shown me that there is some good that can come out of such an ugly disease. I plan on volunteering for Heart Connection as much as possible in the future and would advise anyone else to get involved in any way they can.

I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at the age of 5 and the nurses at the University of Iowa Children's Hospital informed my family of this unique camp. After the first year, I was hooked. Heart Connection and Children's Cancer Connection gave me hope, courage, and strength when I needed it most. It also gave me friendships that will last a lifetime. I'm so grateful for every opportunity I've had with them.

Our daughter Ava, age 10, is lucky to be a leukemia survivor. Every summer since 2005, she and her brother Jared, age 12, spend an amazing week at the CCC camps, which keeps our entire family humble of heart and bonded to the cancer community, enriching our sense of gratitude for health, life, and the eternal human spirit. CCC is our most powerful connection to the cancer experience, which helps us strive to be better individuals and a closer family.

We love Childern's Cancer Connection! When my youngest was diagnosed with a brain tumor 3 years ago the CCC was there to support us. We have participated in the Beads of Bravery program. My oldest has been to Sibling Camp 3 years in a row and her smile says it all when we pick her up at the end of the week! The CCC puts on an AWESOME Christmas party every year with ice skating, snacks, story time and SANTA. My oldest has also participated in a basketball camp for 2 years now. We have been to Adventureland with the CCC and participated in CLUB HOPE; a support group for families. There is so much more and without the CCC the last three years would have been a lot harder. We have fond memories to look back on and fun to look forward too! Thank you so much Children's Cancer Connection!

I have been volunteering at Children's Cancer Connection for about 3 months now and I love every minute of it. I go to blank and do arts and crafts with the children while they wait to see the doctor. No matter what kind of day I am having, these kids can always put a smile on my face. I will hopefully be helping out at the week long summer camp this summer for children with cancer, put on by the Children's Cancer Connection. I am very excited for my future with this organization!

I have volunteered for Children's Cancer Connection for a little over five years now. I was introduced to them while going to DMACC. I imediately fell in love with what they stood for and what they do! I couldn't help but be sucked in by all the smiling little faces and awesome people that work for and volunteer forChildren's Cancer Connection. By volunteering I have made so many new friends and had so many great experiences that I wouldn't trade for the world! I am very happy to be a part of this awesome family!

I have been volunteering with Children's Cancer Connection for 5 years now and I have loved every minute of it. This organization provides such wonderful support not only to children with a cancer diagnosis, but to their families as well. And they stick with them from start to finish... and beyond! I have seen firsthand the effect this organization has on kids and their families, and how dedicated these families are to the organization.

This summer will mark my tenth year (week) volunteering at Camp Heart Connection. The kids and staff keep me coming back every year. What I like most about Children's Cancer Connection is their understanding that cancer affects the whole family. Children's Cancer Connection is there for the entire family through the entire journey. It's hard to explain the sense of community I feel every summer when I go to camp, even when words aren't spoken about the heartaches these kids must face there is an undersanding among them and a bond I cannot explain. The Children's Cancer Connection is there for familes when they need support the most. I feel privilaged to get to share a week with such an amazing group of people that are wise beyond their years and keep me grounded and focused on what's really important in life.

Children's Cancer Connection is a fabulous organization that helps kids who are dealing with cancer! Growing up is hard enough and I'm so glad there is an organization helping sick kids get through this.

The Children's Cancer Connection really helped me through my time of need. I was a 13 year old boy just diagnosed with cancer. I was really upset that I had to go through this. I really did not want to participate in any of the things the CCC wanted me to do but they kept trying. Eventually I went to a Timberwolves game with them, and that talked me into going to camp. Going to camp was the best thing for me. Through camp I have made life long friends and still volunteer there today.

The Heart Connection gives so many children going through treatments, beads for bravery, which our son has quite a few of. Gifts at christmas time for the whole family, and gifts periodically while having treatments at the hospital , they are really great to have in our lives.

The Heart Connection is a wonderful organization for Cancer children and parents. The staff is dedicated to hard work to make this a wonderful experience for all.

I was diagnosed with leukemia in April 1989 at the age of 9. In June of 1989 I attended my first week of Heart Connection Camp. Since then, I have been both a camper and volunteer for this organization. All of my experiences with the Heart Connection are memories I cherish from a time in my life when most would probably think that I would rather have not have memories!
The Heart Connection provides services to children and young adults who are fighting or who have survived childhood cancer. I can't imagine that there is a better organization in the United States with the same mission.

The Children's Cancer Connection has been an incredible support system for our family as our son was going through treatments. We really love how the WHOLE family is included since cancer not only impacts the child going through it, but it really turns the whole household upside down! The family camp and summer camp were awesome! Last year was the first year for my kids and they were so excited to get Valentine notes from their counselors recently! It meant so much to them that they sent a note and they are excited to attend again this year to see their camp friends. Obviously, camp is only a part of what this organization does, but we are thankful that they were available to us during the treatments and continue to be part of our family during our continued followups. What a great resource and support system for the entire family.

Childrens Cancer Connection is a wonderful organization that I have worked closely with for several years. The staff is incredible and their number one concern is for the children and trying to give them some happiness during their difficult journey fighting cancer.

I've worked with The Heart Connection for a few years now and LOVE how this organization's number one concern is the children. Outside of the hundreds of amazing things this organization does for children with cancer, they make children living with cancer feel like the most important, normal kids in the world for one week out of the year. It is the best week of the year for almost every kid at camp.

We've been associated with The Heart Connection since my son was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer in 2000. They are an indespensible resource for children and families dealing with childhood cancer. It's hard enough for kids to go through the rigors of cancer treatment and feel "different" from all their friends. Their summer camp allows these kids to act like normal kids for a week and have the true summer camp expereicne without other kids staring at their lack of hair, their wheelchair, braces, crutches, etc. My son has attended camp numerous times with braces and crutches and has had an amazing time and will be continuing as an adult counselor. They also provide support group services for families including on for the survivors who have beomce adults, addressing the possible after affects of their treatments and helping them move forward. It's not just a charity that sends kids to camp, they look for needs in every aspect of dealing with childhood cancer and try to fill them. INVALUABLE pretty much sums up The Heart Connection. - Carol L

We have been involved with the the Heart Connection since our son cancer was discoverd in 1992. We have 7 children and all of have enjoyed the friendships and experiences of attending summer camps. We moved 600 miles away from Iowa but still came back twice a year since 1997. Some of children have even volunteered as councilers.

My wife and I as well have had great times working in the kitchen for 18 years.

These kind of experiiences have given us great memories and only possible through the heart connection. They have provided programs that cancer patients and siblings look forward to every year. We have committed to help as long as they will have us.

Rudy Knight

As a volunteer and former employee of Children's Cancer Connection I can't say enough kind words about the staff who put in long hours and all their best efforts to create programs that actually do make life for children/adolescents with cancer a little bit better.

The Childrens Cancer Connection has been a part of our life since our daughter was diagnosed with Leukemia nearly ten years ago. CCC provides many opportunities and support for the children and their families while dealing with cancer. They provide some activites while the child is at the clinic or hospital. They provide camp to the children and their siblings, and numerous other activities throughout the year. My children are always excited when anything is going on with the CCC. The connections that the children have made with the other campers and staff are priceless, and life long.

Having visited Sibling Camp, the Christmas Card Kick-Off Event and the Breakfast of Champions, I am continually humbled by the spirit of the children and their families and the compassion of the volunteers. Participating in the Adopt-a-Family was a joy for our office in giving. The thoughtfulness of thank yous and photos of our family that we received was truly a 'connection' for us all.

I've been involved in this awesome organization since 1994 when our son was diagnosed with Leukemia. We have been involved as a board member, a volunteer and our family has been the recipient of the wonderful benefits provided by the Children's Cancer Connection. Matt was a camper for many years and always intentely watched the mail each year, eagerly watching for the camp application.

This is just a phenomenal organization with wonderful caring people involved in the leadership, the organizational structure and as the volunteers that make the organization work.

Not only Have I volenteered for The Heart Conenction of the past several years. But I have also been a camper. They offer a camp and a safe haven like no other. It helps the campers afflicted with cancer and perhaps humilations in their everyday lives, a place to feel welcomed and part of a group of friends that they know they truley belong with. I know first hand this is true, in school I never had any friends, I was very shy and was picked on. But at camp I was able to open up and talk to people. I've made life long friends because of it. And because I volenteet I can give back not only what I recieved in friendship but in guidance from many of the volenteers I've met as a camper. I love this camp and look forward to seeing new faces and all of the campers I've grown to know and fromed bonds with. Childhood cancer is unquiqe in an almost decieving way/ Because the desease takes so much from us and leaves us batterned an worn. Many of us have life long side effects. I can speak first hand having a learning disability. But I feel I am lucky, some of my camper friends have difficulty walking. But we have that bond we are survivors of childhood cancer and it's a mutual understanding that no of us whould trade for the world . The Heart Connection has given us a wonderful and rare opportunity to conect with people like us. And to teach those who might not otherwise understand what it means to have or have had childhood cancer.

I volunteered at Camp Heart last summer and it was a great experience. It was my first experience working at a camp and I intend to return every year I can. It is wonderful to know that Iowa has such an amazing resource available to our young people.

I was a sibling camper at the Heart Connection for 10 years. Throughout those years, I was able to share my experiences with other kids who went through the exact same thing. I made more friends through camp than I could have every imagined. Camp meant so much to my brother and I that we both now volunteer as counselors at camp. I am so please to know that by me donating just one week of time to those kids, they are able to cope with cancer a little easier. The Heart Connection has done so much for my family and for families like mine, and I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart. I would not be the person that I am today without them.

The Heart Connection has played an invaluable role in my family's coping with a childhood cancer diagnosis. My niece has found a place, in Camp, where she is free to acknowledge her feelings and express them however she needs; with people who really understand. She lost her sister eight years ago and without Heart Connection I don't think she'd be the healthy, well-adjusted teenager she is today. We have bene blessed by this wonderful organization!

My daughter was diagnosed with cancer at age 11, but the truth is, the whole family has to work at survival. The Heart Connection is hands down the main reason that my kids have learned to cope. We have what I believe to be a close, loving family, but my son, who was 9 at the time of her diagnosis, was dealing by literally running away. After one week at The Heart Connection Camp, he came home a different kid. He came home a survivor. My kids have attended for 6 years now and their camp counselors and camp friends have been a tremendous influence in their lives. There is something incredibly special about being around others who know what you're going through. I don't think it always takes words, but rather just the presence of someone who understands, and that seems to be what makes the difference at The Heart Connection Camp. Everyone just understands without having to explain anything. Thank you Heart Connection for providing so many beautiful years of survival for my entire family.

I will be volunteering at Heart Connection camp for the second time this August and I cannot wait. The best part is seeing how easy it is for the children to bond knowing that they all share something in common. The Heart Connection does so many great things for children with cancer and their families. They also focus a lot of their efforts on siblings of children affected by cancer because most times they get left out. Because of Heart Connection there are countless friendships between families, cancer wariors, and siblings; these are the friendships that keep hope alive.

I've been volunteering for The Heart Connection for a few years and I want to let everyone know how inspiration the organization is. To see the children at summer camp that can relate to one another because of their illness is powerful. This organzation brings together a number of different people who work to help make the lives of families and children that are affected with childhood cancer a little easier. This organization wouldn't be possile without the giving donors, helpful staff and supportive volunteers. Overall, It's a great organization to be associated with.

The Heart Connection has a wonderful and friendly staff that is unbeatable. The programs and services are top-quality and are truly making a difference in our community!

The Heart Connection is an amazing organization that is filled with love and support. This organization makes a difference in the lives of the people that it touches. Through the many events that I've volunteered at for The Heart Connection, I can see how hard the staff, volunteers and supporters work for this organzation.

The weeks I have spent volunteering at Camp Heart Connection have been amazing! To see Oncology Campers who have been so sick during the year thriving outdoors and to see Sibling Campers who are often in the shadows during the year get attention showered on them makes my year. Camp Heart Connection changes lives of both the kids and the staff.

One of the many blessings that came to our family in the difficult journey of our son's diagnosis of Ewing's Sarcoma at age 7 is the Heart Connection. The times that we spent together at Family Camps over the years were invaluable in many ways. We had fun and could actually relax in the unique company of families and staff who knew all about our struggles.

The Heart Connection has been a lifesaver for our family. We first found out about it when our son Brandon (13) was in his second year of treatment for brain cancer. Brandon went to oncology camp and Courtney (11) and Jordan (8) went to sibling camp. Brandon passed away at Christmas that year (1996) and the loss was devestating for our family. The kids continued to attend sibling camp. It was such a wonderfully loving atmosphere with them and they were able to spend time with other kids who understood exactly what they were experiencing. Eventually Taylor who was three at the time of Brandon's death started going to camp as well. Courtney is 24, Jordan, 21 and Taylor turned 16 this month and he is currently awaiting another week at camp. There's not enough words to express the love and support my children receive at camp and how that love carries over from year to year. They can't wait to go back. Courtney and Jordan go along to take Taylor so they can touch base with old friends. The Heart Connection is truly a wonderful resource and I'm so thankful for the opportunity for my children to be a part of it.

We love the Heart Connection Summer Camp program! My son Jim was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 5 1/2 and he started going to camp when he was 7. He is now 14 and still loves camp! It is a safe place, for kids to connect with other kids, who are going through the same thing...dealing with cancer. The kids don't stare at you when you have a bald head, a port sticking out of your chest, or you are missing a limb. My son hopes to one day be a camp counselor, and help other kids who are fighting the battle with cancer, to enjoy the summer camp experience in a safe environment. Thanks Heart Connection Camp staff for all you do!

I have been volunteering with The Heart Connection for over a year now and am very impressed with how they operate. Their cause is noble and their effect can be seen directly impacting the children and families that they serve. This is a very "hands on" organization and is well known in the community for the work that they do. I always feel that my time is appreciated and necessary to support their cause. Knowing that something I did helped make a sick child smile is just an amazing feeling.

I can't remember a time that heart connection wasn't part of our lives. My son was diagnosed 15 years ago, and although he is now all grown up, Heart connection is still there, supporting our family. My daughter still goes to camp every year and attends as many of the events as she can. When she can no longer be a camper, she intends to become a counselor. She has developed long term friendships at camp that are important to her. Heart connection has helped my children become people who care about others, and I will always be greatful.

The Heart Connection is an awesome program for our family. We are able to join with other people around the state to share our joys and trials and get support from people who understand us very well. The summer camps allow my boys to get away from the stress of daily cancer fighting and be free to enjoy themselves. We really love the year round gatherings and look forward to each get away.

The Heart Connection is an amazing organization that shows kids who are fighting cancer that they are not alone. This group of wonderful volunteers brings these kids and their families together through many different types of activities throughout the year and lets us ALL have fun! They show the kids who are fighting day after day to be normal, that they can be normal. They can go to camp for a whole week and do all of the things other kids are doing during for the summer and still be safe. They have qualified counselors and staff available to make sure these kids are well taken care of and have the time of their lives!!! My 9 year old daughter, who was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 4, finally went to camp this summer and came back a whole new girl. She realized that with all she has been through, she can't wait to be able to help kids with cancer just like the people with Heart Connection have done for her. And as much as they have done for her, they have also done as much for us as a family. We try to participate in the different activities that are offered to us through the Heart Connection, like family camp or a day at Adventureland Amusement Park, just so we can reach out to other people who are going through some of the same things we have been through. We understand and can relate. The Heart Connection has given us all a lot to be thankful for, especially them!!

There is no organization like the Heart Connection Children's Cancer Programs. A cancer diagnosis brings the world to a halt. And then it starts to spin. Doctors, procedures, hair loss, nausea, waiting for test results and dealing with insurance. But the outside world really doesn't halt. Simple things like going to work, making dinner, getting kids to school keep going. You try to hang on, you try to let go. You try to breath, you try not to drown. And you try to keep the other kids' world running, along with the marriage. And through all of that, there is this incredible organization, the Heart Connection. They invite the entire family to the most fun activities imaginable, they feed us, they put us around other families in the same boat, and they do it all for free. They provided some of the rare "fun" times that we couldn't manage in the midst of juggling it all. And then there is camp. A week for oncology kids with doctors and nurses and volunteers who come back year after year. The fragile child is handed off into the most capable hands that even we overprotective parents feel safe. Feeding tubes, ports, wheelchairs, they deal with it all and turn no one away. And then they go even further. A week for the siblings. The overlooked ones who we struggled just to keep fed and clothed and going to school. The ones who wonder why they can't go to the hospital and get all that attention too. They go away for a magical week each year, with those wonderful volunteers who have watched them grow over the years, who have become a second family. And they smile and wave goodbye, independent and safe for a week of pure spoiling. The stuff I couldn't do. And even 12 years post cancer, they still invite us to their activities. We still go to family camp and summer camp. And it brings back all that we went through and all that we survived and gratitude for it all. At this point in my child's recovery, I still go to these activities to stay clear, to remember what is important in life, and how fortunate we are. I love this organization with all of my heart. so much so that I even open my wallet to them, which is not something I do often as a single parent of three. My goal each year is to give them more than last year. They just gave to us, they continue to keep giving to us, with open arms and undaunting smiles. May you never face childhood cancer, but if you do, move to Des Moines, Iowa. This organization is worth it.

This organization is so close to my heart. The Heart Connection has offered support to me and my family when my daughter was diagnosed with cancer at 5 months old. This organization has connected us with other families who have also been impacted by this terrifying disease. The Heart Connection offers continuous opportunities for children diagnosed with cancer and their families to have fun and smile during and after treatment. We are forever grateful to The Heart Connection!

The Heart Connection has become like a part of our family. I don't know what I would have done with out thier support since my Daughter was diagnosed with ALL 2 years ago. They have been there for my other children when I couldn't and the many different programs they have for families of children with cancer are amazing. Thank you so much!!

The Heart Connection is an amazing organization that couldn't do HALF of what they do without the generous support of volunteers and donors! The families are amazing!

The Heart Connection is such an amazing organization! They offer so much support for the families and all the activities and programs are top notch!

Our entire family has been involved with The Heart Connection Children's Cancer Programs since it's beginning. We have had campers at both the oncology and sibling camps. Our campers have served as staff and counselors. Our extended family has volunteered for 10 years at oncology camp and it is absolutely, the most rewarding thing I have done in my life. Camp and events provide so much to so many, fulfilling the NEEDS of whatever the camper/family is coping with. Every family member is effectived by this horrible disease and THCCCP addresses those issues. Camp staff is amazing and the campers are everyone's top priority. We have volunteered at events outside of camp, done fund-raising in our hometown and volunteered in the office. ALL have been wonderful experiences that make you feel good about helping these families.

I have had the pleasure of working with the Heart Connection since it's inception many years ago. My original role was as a staff nurse for our onoclogy camp. To watch a child with cancer go swimming, horse-back riding, climbing "the wall", dancing with a new best friend or love is just amazing!! For many of them, it's the first venture back to "normal" life. Later I have become both a financial supporter, and more importantly an advocate for making sure that all of our families know about the wonderful programs that The Heart Connection provides for them. We receive a wonderful treatment notebook that we simply fill in with the appropriate pages for each child's care plan that I hand out to families at the time of diagnosis. Our parents love having everything in one organized space. Some of our kids actually look forward to painful procedures because they get a new bead for their necklace through the Beads for Bravery program that the Heart Connection funds and supports. I've had the pleasure of attending several family camps as a leader for parental group sessions wherein not only the child with cancer, but the entire family get to experience the camp expericence and weekend of fun. The siblings of our children with cancer look forward to attending camp year after year. They are made to feel very special for a whole week and the focus of attention is on the sib rather than the ill child. New programs looking at support groups for the parents and sibs in the commumity, looking at issues of long-term survivorship, and just providing special experiences for our children with cancer are in the beginning phase. The most wonderful thing about the Heart Connection is that they provide all these services to our families at NO COST. Many of them are very financially strapped to make ends meet with all the extra expenses of bills not paid by insurance, extra travel and child care expenses, loss of income from one of the parents needing to quit working to care for the ill child, etc.

I started with The Heart Connection first as a Sibling Camper more than 20 years ago. What a wonderful experience it was to spend time with other kids that understood what it was like to go through the experience. The Heart Connection provides that support to the entire family and that is what makes them such a great organziation.

This is an amazing program I have had the pleasure of being involved with for over 20 years. As a sibling, I found a community who understood what my family was going through and other children who knew what it was like to be lost amidst the chaos of cancer treatment. Little did I know that 20 years later, many of my fellow campers would still be close and dear friends. That is the wonderful part of the Heart Connection; it is not only an organization that helps during the crisis phases of cancer. It is a community that remains in contact and will see you through not only treatment, remission, treatment, or (sadly) loss - but also graduations, marriages, children and more.

Last year was my first year volunteering at Heart Connection camp. The experience was unbelievable: a whole week of sharing stories, meeting friends, and limitless fun. Camp truly gives children and families affected by cancer the opportunity to step outside the confines of illness for a while and just live.

The Heart Connection is a great support system for the children and familes that are dealing with such a terrible sickness. They look past the child that is sick and help them to get on with life and make the little moments and accomplishments seems huge. It's the little day in and day out things they do for the familes that let's them know they are not alone in this fight. They have people who are pulling for them all the way.

I've been a volunteer for the past couple of months for The Heart Connection. Through my experience I have truly seen the mission of The Heart Connection, "to enhance the lives of children and their families that are affected by cancer by providing education, family support and recreation," come to life. Words cannot express how much this organization does for the families, children and communities at large that it is associated with. I'm proud to help an organization that has such a noble cause.

I am a volunteer at Oncology Camp and at Blank Hospital Oncology/Hematology Clinic. This organization is filled with angels helping and supporting families of children with cancer. They sponsor camps for siblings, patients, and families to get some time away from their cancer fight to be kids and have fun. They work tirelessly and selflessly to raise funds to support families and children in any way they can. I am inspired to help and do more by all of the angels involved in this organization. They are only limited by funding. They establish close relationships with families and help them keep going in a tough battle!! Truly amazing!!

The Heart Connection provides numerous programs not only for the child but their family as well. It gives kids opportunity to be kids at oncology camp as well as allowing siblings their time away from it all.

The Heart Connection is such a wonderful organization. I love that it provides great events for not only the children struggling with cancer, but also their siblings as well. It always has great things for the children to do and the staff and volunteers are great!

I have recently retired and have chosen The Heart Connection as an organization with great volunteer opportunities. Whether selling t-shirts at the Iowa State Fair, wrapping gifts at the mall, baking cookies for a Fun Run or just stuffing envelopes in the local office you are surrounded by wonderful people who love what they are doing and working toward a great cause.

When I was introduced to the Heart Connection in 1996 as a camper I feel that I had gained a family for life. They have been there for me through my whole cancer journey from my second diagnosis and have started programming to help me as an adult survivor of cancer. I have had the ability to be a recipient of their programs and be a program leader as a volunteer to help others. I have gained so much from being a counselor for the Heart Connection and it is an honor to serve the children who are fighting cancer now. I can serve as an example to them they can grow up to fulfill their dreams and become something great!

Our family has been served by the Heart Connection beginnin in 1988. Our children attended their camps. We have been recipents of their services, donors and volunteers. When our son, Kevin was struggling with cancer, he set his sites on getting to camp. He made it and The Heart Connection did not fail him in providing the best camp ever. The planning that took place by the staff to ensure he had a wonderful, safe time one last time gave us all memories to treasure for a lifetime.

This is an excellent organization that provides needed (and fun!) services to families in and around Iowa. The organization strives to provide emotional support in a fun, camp atmostphere!

This Camp ROCKS! All the volunteers put in so much time and patience with the kids so that they can have a great time at camp. It lets kids be kids, interact with staff, and build great friendships that will last a lifetime.

This organization helps so many fantastic kids and their families. Heart Connection touches lives in such a special way, letting families know that they are not alone in their cancer fight. Kids with Heart Connection involvement benefit so greatly and have such pure and joyous memories that last a lifetime.

The Heart Connection first changed my life when my baby brother was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 1996, and has made my world a better place every day since then. Their support while we were going through treatment was invaluable, but the support they have given us in the time since my brother has been in remission has been amazing. There are few organizations that exist to help families navigate a post-cancer world, and the Heart Connection does it best!

This is one of the most amazing organizations I know of. To see the faces of children and siblings touched by childhood cancer by the programs they have available is absolutely unbelievable! I've volunteered for this nonprofit for the last 5 years and have loved every minute of it, and they have improved their outreach to suit the needs of the families touched by cancer, as they need it.

I'm a camp counselor for The Heart Connection Camp. It's an amazing camp that lets kids be kids again and forget about the worries of their everyday lives that have been affected by cancer.

I have been a volunteer counselor at both the sibling and oncology camps, and the time there is very special for all involved. This a week where each camper gets to be the star, and it provides such a great support for the whole family. It is a week where miracles happen, and I am blessed to be a part of it.

I have been a volunteer for The Heart Connection for 4 years now, and every moment has been a blessing! I have met some amazing kids, and it has been a blessing to hear their stories! The way that these kids talk about camp says it all- camp means the world to these kids, both oncology campers and siblings. It is a place to get away- where they don't have to talk about things that are going on, but if they want to, everyone understands.

I volunteered at the Heart Connection Camp a few years ago. It was amazing to see all of the dedication and hard work that went into making kids feel great about themselves, whether they had cancer or had a sibling that did.

I've been a volunteer for The Heart Connection for over ten years. The compassion that this organization has for children with cancer is genuine and amazing. And their acknoledgement that the needs of the siblings and families is equally important just goes to show how thoughtful and giving The Heart Connection is. It's truely an honor just to be a tiny, tiny part of the big differences that they make in the lives of so many.

Our son was diagnosed with ALL in January of 1994 when he was 8 years old. The Heart Connection was a blessing for our family in that it gave my wife and I much needed repite time when our son went to their oncology camp. He always had a fantastic time at camp and every year he would watch for the camp application in the mail so he wouldn't miss getting into camp. This is a wonderful organization that also provides a camp and other programs for siblings of chilren living with cancer. Many times the siblings feel left out because so much attention is focused on the child with cancer. Just a wonderful organization that does so much good in our world!

We were introduced to The Heart Connection 6 years ago when my son was diagnosed with cancer. They have given our family outings that we would have never been able to afford. The camps they hold are top notch and the support they give the parents, children and siblings is incredible. A great organization that cares about the WHOLE family!

The Heart Connection is a great organization that has done a lot for the families it serves. The organization is there to help the families through their journey of cancer.

The Heart connection provides so many wonderful different resources and programs for families and children with cancer that it's difficult to pin-point a specific area in which they accel in most. Their camps offer a wonderful outlet for children and siblings of kids with cancer. It lets them be a kid and not a kid with cancer or a kid who has a brother or sister with cancer.

There are no words to convey the amazing impact that The Heart Connection Children's Cancer Programs has on Iowa families affected by childhood cancer. As a volunteer I have been involved with The Heart Connection for the last two years, and the response from children and families is always positive. The organization provides recreation and support to families through their cancer battle and beyond. The Heart Connection is a family to every individual that they serve, and I am very proud to be a part of such a wonderful organization.

The Heart Connection has been an amazing program. I have helped volunteer for some events that they have been apart of and I can tell anyone that no group of people cares more about these kids then the staff at the Heart Connection. They put forth their full effort and contribute so much of their time, even on their days off. This small group of people has made such an impact on the communities in Iowa. I know that they don't have the major budgets that some organizations like them have but to me it is quite obvious that they use what they have the best and most efficient way possible. They put on camps for the kids and their siblings while also making special trips to the hospitals for rounds of chemo and radiation. With each trip they bare a gift for the children to show their strength and endurance in what will surely be one of the toughest times in their lives. While volunteering it was amazing to see the childrens faces when any member of the Heart Connections amazing staff entered the room. The feelings of mutual respect and accomplishment were felt together and it definately showed. I can only hope that if someday my child is faced with this type of trial that the Heart Connection is there to help us along the way as they have been for so many others. Thank you to all of you at the Heart Connection for all of your love and support for our future generations. I hope you know the impact your making in their lives.

I have been a volunteer for 4 summers at their sibling and oncology camps. This organization goes above and beyond many other similar organizations in that they not only have programs for the child who has/had cancer, but also the child's siblings and parents as well. The organization's programs from the beloved summer camp to ClubHope to family events allow the oncology kids and their families to be introduced to others who can relate to their experiences and provide a support system for eachother as they face the ups and downs of the battle against cancer. Their programs remind the families and children that they aren't the only ones who have faced the challenges of cancer and that they don't have to face it alone. It is a shame that their aren't more organizations like the Heart Connection throughout the United States.

I became aware of Heart Connection through one of the young people that was volunteering for the organization. Her enthusiasm about the organization and programs stimulated my interest and desire to learn more about the organization. I invited the organization to make a presentation to a club of which I am a member. The presentor gave an excellent program, explaining what the organization is doing, what the needs are and how others can become supporive of the organization and its programs. The club members were very pleased and were gratefull for the informaion given and were moved by the presentor's enthusiasm and dedication to the organization's goals.

I've gone to the Heart Connection for 11 years now and it is truly a part of me. It makes me who I am and helps numerous kids, like me, deal with cancer and make the truest of friends they could ever even imagine having. Even the people on staff are friendly, nice, loving, hugable people. (and who doesn't love hugs?) I LOVE THE HEART CONNECTION =]]

The Heart Connection Children’s Cancer Programs is truly a non-profit organization that changes the lives of children and their families that are affected by cancer. The numerous programs, outings, support and overall assistance that the organization provides truly makes a difference. I’ve nothing but amazing stories and memories of my time working with The Heart Connection and I’d recommend to anyone becoming associated with this organization, whether by volunteering, enjoying their programming or by becoming a “Heart Connection family.” To see the smiles and hear laughter of children who have been through much more than anyone could imagine, is the best medicine for the families and children that this organization touches.

I was a counselor at Sibling Camp for the Heart Connection and I can honestly say I have never been part of such an amazing organization in my life. The people running this non-profit are some of the best in the world. They genuinely care for the kids and families who take part in their programs and dedicate their careers to helping these families make their battle with cancer a little easier.

I'm a volunteer with the Heart Connection and the work that is done and the attitudes of the volunteers and staff are what draw me back again and again. Everyone is so loving and genuine, and we all truly want to see the kids and their families have an amazing experience. The summer camps for the kids are amazing, but so are the regular get-togethers throughout the year!

The Heart Connection Camp is a place that is impossible to describe its meaning and magnitude. The organization works so hard all year long to touch hundreds of children's and families' lives in and out of Iowa. I've attended the Oncology Camp since I was five and have been there for 14 summers, and I am still in awe of the experiences I've had. It's a week where kids with any type of cancer, regardless of the stage of their treatment, can go and be kids. They don't have to worry about being gawked at because they have no hair or they have only one leg. These kids get to have a week all to them, and just be a normal kid. The staff works incredibly hard to get every kid to participate in everything possible. I've seen a girl in a wheelchair do the zipline, and kids with prosthetic legs ride a horse. These kids can choose to ignore the fact that they have cancer, or they can bond with those around them who know what's going on. I've seen a group of young girls talk about their ports and what they named them. It's an incredible week, that for many of these kids, is one of the best weeks out of their year. It's a loving atmosphere where kids can talk with others who can truly say "I understand."

I have been apart of this organization sense 1989 and I make it a point to be there every year because it means so much to me. At camp I have made friendships that I couldnt make anywhere else. I had brain surgery back in December of 08 and one of my camp buddies sat by me for two days while I was sleeping and only able to days in and out. The people you meet leave their prints on your heart wether they are age five or eighteen, everyone will have an impact.

The Heart Connection has been a part of my life now for almost 20 years. When I was younger and sick the organization was there for me and my family and has continued to stay connected. Thanks to the Heart Connection I've now been provided with adult cancer survivor opportunities that have helped me educate myself on staying healthy long after going into remission.

Amazing. There is no other way to put it. this camp helped me and my brothers cope with my little brother getting treated for a malignant brain tumor. Ever since 2001 my older brothers and I have attended this camp and my younger brother has gone to the camp for survivors. We all plan to come back as counselors.

I have been volunteering for The Heart Connection for about 3 months and have absolutely loved my there. They provide awesome support for children with cancer and their families and they really are there to assist in every way. During camp, I could see how much it really meant to the kids and the great time they have with others. Camp is where the kids can be themselves and where they can be comfortable around others. The Heart Connection has an awesome network of volunteers that are always willing to help out at programs and especially during camp. The staff of the organization are great, always having new ideas and are never afraid to take on a new challenge. I will definitely continue my attention and time to this organization in the future!

My son's first experience with Heart Connection was shortly after his cancer diagnosis. He attended Oncology Camp and was able to interact other children in various phases of treatment. Later my daughter attended Sibling Camp where the focus was on her, rather than on her brother. We are grateful that Heart Connection has been a significant part of our lives for the past 16 years.