A cancer diagnosis doesn't pause childhood.
It shouldn't have to pause learning, either.
Each year, we provide more than 50 fully stocked backpacks to the hematology/oncology department at Akron Children's Hospital for distribution to young patients and their siblings.
Every backpack is packed with care and includes all the necessities: notebooks, pens and pencils, notecards, binders, rulers, scissors, glue, a pencil sharpener, hand sanitizer, Post-it notes, tissues, a lunch box or bag and other specially selected items. A gift card is also included so families can pick up anything additional they need.
For a child going through cancer treatment, something as familiar as a backpack full of school supplies can be grounding. It's a signal that life goes on, that learning still matters, and that someone is in their corner, cheering them on not just through treatment, but through everything that comes after.
