This year I’ve seen lots of people posting lists of things they’re thankful for on social media each day. Although those participating are from all different corners of my life, the lists of things they’re thankful for are typically the same – parents, spouses, pets, houses, warm food, friends, kids, good health… All things present in their daily lives but often overlooked or taken for granted. Especially that last one. Because your health is one of those things that you often don’t think about until you no longer have it. Unfortunately, there are many people this year who can’t include good health on the list of things their thankful for this year.
For kids with pediatric cancer and their parents, health is a daily battle and one that they rely on Tackle Kids Cancer to combat. Cancer knows no age and can strike at anytime. If you take a minute to look through the MVP area of the Tackle Kids Cancer website, it won’t take long to find a child like yours. 
For me, that child was Gabriella. She reminds me so much of my 6 year old, Hazeline in that they’re around the same age and love ponies. Diagnosed with leukemia in kindergarten, Gabriella was treated for high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia with intensive chemotherapy for a year and then maintenance chemotherapy for another 18 months. Since treatment can affect balance, coordination, and energy, Gabriella participated in a therapeutic riding program called Pony Power. Together with her pony Red Hot she was able to regain confidence and enjoy physical activity again. Her siblings were even able to participate in her treatment.
And that’s where Tackle Kids Cancer’s approach is different is different, they arrange treatment around the interests of their patients and with the families in mind. Like how doctors were able to schedule a patient’s chemotherapy around a robotic competition in which he wanted to participate or how Tackle Kids Cancer was able to arrange for a patient to meet his favorite NFL quarterback. Tackle Kids Cancer funds pediatric cancer research and innovative patient care programs to help find a cure. And because the pediatric cancer community is small, discoveries made by researchers with Tackle Kids Cancer dollars help children throughout the world.
This year as you consider your holiday giving, please keep Tackle Kids Cancer in mind. Every donation makes a difference, no matter how big or how small. You can make the holidays little brighter for kids like Gabriella and all those who are battling pediatric cancer this holiday season.
