My Nonprofit Reviews

I first became aware of Kids Cancer Foundation of SF when my daughter was in treatment for Stage IV Neuroblastoma. Although we lived in S. Florida at the time, we went to NYC for Danika's treatment. She was just 7 months old at diagnosis and the year that followed was an absolute whirlwind and a waking nightmare most can't imagine. I can't even recall if the foundation was fully up and running at the time I met Michelle, one of the founders, at a local hospital. Michelle gave me so much encouragement and hope for what the future would be like once we were past the initial treatment phase and more insight into what our "new normal" would be once we were back home. I valued that time I spent with Michelle so very much and the information I gleaned from our visit was super helpful. It was a few years later that I got back in touch with Michelle and the foundation to try to plug in to our local community however we could. We visited the office and attended a few KCFSF events, and with every interaction, I always came away with the feeling of love, encouragement, and so much HOPE for the future. Not just for Danika and our family - - but for all the families fighting and living with pediatric cancer and its devastating effects on the entire family unit. The services and support that KCFSF provides are so very important to the whole family. Pediatric cancer takes a tremendous amount out of any family - emotionally, physically, financially. The effects are long-lasting and far-reaching. To have an organization like Kids Cancer Foundation of S. Florida helps to sort of put some of what was taken back. I'm sure this takes a different form for each family since the effects will be different for everyone. The more services that can be provided can only help the healing and day-to-day living for each family affected.
Danika is not our only child and so I am especially aware of how a pediatric cancer diagnosis affects siblings. These kids spend far too much time in the background, feeling less important somehow while treatment and rehab takes center-stage, wondering how they fit in, and what their role is through it all. A very real "what about me?" mindset enters in as their accomplishments, hopes and dreams fade into the distance. That sort of emotional distress can be life-impacting and long-lasting. These siblings are loved on and included and supported in such a special and necessary way. From a sweet hug and stuffed animal to counseling services and everything in between. I only wish we had more opportunity to take advantage and participate in the different events where siblings could feel a part of it all. This is an amazing group of people who provide so much support - the ripple effect of which will be felt for years to come. Any donations and support and recognition they receive can only go to help what I am sad to say is far too many families who are living with the harsh realities of pediatric cancer. This foundation deserves so much respect and attention and as much funding as possible so they can continue to do what they do to serve families like mine. It may sound cliche', but these kids really are our future - - and foundations like KCFSF are a very necessary and integral part of that future. Thank you to all of the KCF of SF family - we love and miss you all! - Danielle S., mom to Danika, 9-yr NBIV Survivor, and family