News Summary
Nemours Children’s Health has received a $1 million donation from the Child Cancer Fund to support an oncology Child Life Specialist for young cancer patients over the next ten years. This funding will help provide emotional and therapeutic support for children undergoing cancer treatments, ensuring they have the necessary resources to cope with their illnesses. The initiative emphasizes a holistic approach to care, addressing both the emotional and developmental needs of children. The donation comes as a tribute to the legacy of dedicated professionals in pediatric oncology care.
Jacksonville – Nemours Children’s Health has received a significant boost in its efforts to support young cancer patients with a $1 million donation over the next ten years from the Child Cancer Fund. This funding will fully support the position of an oncology Child Life Specialist, providing necessary assistance for children undergoing cancer treatment in the region.
The allocated funds will last for a decade and are aimed at delivering emotional, educational, and therapeutic support to young patients battling cancer. By ensuring that children receive a holistic approach to their care, this initiative addresses not only their physical needs but also their emotional and developmental health.
Aaron Carpenter, the North Florida President for Nemours Children’s Health, emphasized the importance of this funding in maintaining comprehensive care for their patients. He noted that the work of Child Life Specialists is crucial in helping kids cope with the challenges posed by cancer treatments.
Carla Montgomery, Executive Director of the Child Cancer Fund, underscored the importance of the Child Life Specialist’s role during treatment. These specialists are specially trained to assist patients and their families in navigating the stress associated with serious illnesses. They utilize various techniques, including therapeutic play, coping strategies, relaxation methods, and guided imagery, to aid in this process.
The oncology Child Life Specialist position funded by this donation will specifically help children manage the anxiety and fear commonly associated with cancer treatments such as needle sticks and chemotherapy. This crucial support will ensure that young patients feel more at ease during their procedures.
This particular funding announcement is notably timed with the retirement of Joli Craver, the current Nemours Children’s Oncology Child Life Specialist, who has dedicated 31 years to the role. The legacy of providing emotional support for young cancer patients continues through the new funding, following in the steps of dedicated professionals like Craver.
The Child Cancer Fund was established in 1994 to safeguard the oncology child life position when it was under threat of elimination. Since then, the organization has expanded its support mechanisms, providing financial assistance and various services for families facing the challenges of childhood cancer. By ensuring consistent backing, the Child Cancer Fund enhances the resources available to families dealing with cancer treatment, facilitating access to essential emotional support and therapeutic activities for their children.
In memory of Christy Keirnan, a patient who passed away from cancer in 2005, the funding serves as a tribute and highlights the commitment the Child Cancer Fund has towards local patients and families. Through this donation, they continue to reaffirm their focus on making a positive difference in the lives of children and families affected by cancer in the Jacksonville area.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florida’s $2 Million Investment for Cancer Research
Additional Resources
- Jacksonville.com
- WOKV
- Florida Governor’s Office
- First Coast News
- ESPN
- Wikipedia: Child Life Specialist
- Google Search: Child Life Specialists
- Google Scholar: Child Life Specialists in cancer treatment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Life Specialist
- Google News: Child Cancer Awareness
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