From the Desk of … Jocelyn Lamont
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| Kate and Santa |
| Click here to view more Christmas Party Pictures |
Spring is in the air! Today it is, but that’s the sunshine pouring in through my office window. And that I have turned the sound down on my radio so I will no longer be able to hear snow in the forecast for tomorrow. UGH! Enough with winter already…there are few things I enjoy about the shiver season – the annual Christmas Party being one of them. This year’s event was once again a highlight of 2008 for not just me, but many of our member families. I’d like to thank our many volunteers who make the day possible, they truly are the difference! Paula – welcome and thank you. Next year?? She’s not running (yet). Did you know we have upwards of 25 volunteers giving their time to ensure the afternoon is such a success? Thanks also to Cancer Recovery Foundation, The Tannis Family, St. Elias Centre staff, the many friends and family who join us and to Chris and Erin Phillips, joined this year by their daughter Niomi.
Which brings me to a second "winter" thing I like – Ottawa Senators hockey. The season, thankfully, overlaps the autumn and spring … what? painful for some of you this year? it hasn’t been their greatest season, granted, but for Candlelighters, the Ottawa Senators hockey games have been a highlight for many of our member families. Enjoying the fast–paced fun–filled games in Elgin’s Place has put a smile on many young faces these past few months … and on some not so young faces too! Go Sens Go!
Much planning takes place in these dark, cold, dismal (did I mention I’m not a fan of winter?) days of winter… I encourage you to check out our
website for all the news that is the news … www.candlelighters.net
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The Member Family Survey is underway … I want to take a quick second and thank everyone who has completed and sent theirs back already and to remind those of you who haven’t had a chance just yet to please, take the 10 minutes and get your feedback to us. It is invaluable. Over the past years, based on your feedback, we have (to name a couple things) : implemented full parking coverage – including at other treatment centres like Sick Kids and St. Justine, expanded the criteria for CyberKids to include children in Grade 2 and higher (previously it was Grade 4), introduced the Kathleen Elizabeth Ward Sibling Bursary as well as the Watercolour Workshops for siblings. Which reminds me…it is bursary application time. Get those applications to us.
Believe it or not, planning for September and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month are under way. If you would like to get your school or workplace involved in the gold ribbon lapel pin campaign, please contact our office. We would really like to expand the number of schools and classrooms that participate, but we need to plan before the summer break.
Also, we are in the midst of planning a ‘mini conference’ information day for parents caregivers. Candlelighters is committed to providing opportunities that allow parents and caregivers to develop a greater understanding of challenging issues is caring for children with cancer. Attendees will gain valuable insight that will assist them cope throughout their child’s journey; taking with them diagnosis/treatment specific information delivered by a diverse group of professionals. So mark your calendars – SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26, 2009. More details will follow.
Okay, I can’t think about September now. I mean I have to, but just not right now. I am going to sign off now with warm thoughts that you enjoy your day, wherever you are, whatever you are doing!