The countdown to Christmas has begun! Are you ready? We know where you can get some really neat stocking stuffers. 🙂

Here’s this week’s links…

Kids – Why We Fight

Julian Ross

Seven year old Julian Ross is fighting a mighty war. The brave little boy, who loves his Nintendo DS and all things military, is battling stage 4 neuroblastoma. His parents have explained to him that the cancer in his body is the “bad army”, and his treatments are the “good army”, fighting to save him. With his parents help, Julian has complied a “bucket list”, a list of things that are important to him. After hearing of one of the items on his list, which was a new van for his family, Timebuyer owner, Bob Natoli, donated a 2006 Crystler mini van. The van will allow Julian and his family to travel to the hospital more comfortably, and also has heat (unlike their old ride!), which will make the trips safer for Julian and his compromised immune system. valleynewsonline.com.

Non-Profits / Events / News

CHOP advances in NB Research

CHOP (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia), has been researching neuroblastoma for decades, determined to find a cause and a cure. Recently, they’ve discovered two gene mutations that can now be studied to create potential new therapies. We love hearing about new discoveries, and can’t wait to see what comes of it! research.chop.edu.

Operation Santa Meets Madi Lewis

ABC 15’s (Phoenix) 11th annual Operation Santa is officially underway, helping to make sure that every child has a toy and a meal this Christmas. Through their program, they’ve met an inspirational little girl undergoing treatment at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, 7-year-old Madison Lewis. Although she’s facing stage 3 NB, and missing her father, who tragically died in a car accident two years ago, Madi is keeping her spirits high. She’s looking forward to Christmas, and really hoping for a hampster! abc15.com.

Celebrating Remission

North Side High School hosted their 25th annual Christmas Party for Kids Surviving Cancer. There were over a dozen survivors and their families in attendance, including 3 year old Quinton Tatum, who beat neuroblastoma. Guests enjoyed gifts from Santa and entertainment from the North Side Show Choir, dance teams and drama ensembles. Syahirah Aziz, a senior at North Side and a volunteer at the event, summed up the night by quoting St. Jude’s spokeswoman Marlo Thomas saying, “Give thanks for the healthy kids in your life and give to those who are not.” journalgazette.net.

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