April 2025 Newsletter
Once upon a time, a group of Parents each lost a Child to Pediatric Cancer. They were faced with many challenges but worked together to form C.U.R.E. with the hope of helping future Families who also receive that devastating diagnosis.
Life is not a fairy tale, but fairy tales pose challenges to the characters involved and the Village comes together to try to help overcome the challenges. C.U.R.E.’s mission is to provide loving support to local Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Families. We aim to be the Village of support that wraps our arms around our Families to help them through their challenges.
Every Family’s story is different. C.U.R.E. travels alongside our Families through their unique stories to help wherever we can.
Our theme for 2025 is Fairytales!
Thank you, Volunteers!
April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month and we could not be more thankful for the incredible people who choose to spend their time supporting our mission. Whether it is tending to our Julie Roberts Children’s Memorial Garden or assembling baskets for an upcoming event, you make a difference. You are advocates. You are friends. You are kind. And you make all the work we do possible. So thank you to those who spend their days organizing our office, lovingly writing birthday cards for our C.U.R.E. Kids and spending long hours at events with us. We appreciate you. Thank you for making bows for auction baskets in your free time and selecting C.U.R.E. for your internships for school. You are incredible. Thank you for helping us remember our angels. You are wonderful. Thank you for dedicating yourself to leading our organization as Board Members. Your time and efforts make a difference.
We appreciate you - all of you. Every gesture, every kindness, every bit of love. You make lives better.
𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥 𝕢𝕦𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕠𝕗 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟝 has been challenging…
In addition to the information shared to the left, C.U.R.E. has lovingly supported our Families in the following ways:
✨ MORE THAN $2,000 in gas gift cards have been distributed to help Families attend important appointments
✨ Celebrated 9 End of Chemo Bell Ringings
✨ Hosted 3 Family outings
✨ Hosted 2 Parents' Nights Out
✨ Assembled February Break Activity Kits for our Families
✨ Paid for a massage for one of our C.U.R.E. Kids
✨ Assisted a C.U.R.E. Family with their rent expense
We could not provide this level of support without your kindness. Every "Like" or "Share" on social media truly makes a difference. Your donations help to let local Families know they are not alone in their battles. We have seen a huge influx of newly diagnosed children and because of your kindness, we have been able to meet the needs of our new Families in addition to continuing to meet the needs of our existing Families.
Thank you for believing in us, our mission and the work we do every day 💛
Cassie’s Corner:
Updates from our Spring Intern
I’ve been having such a great experience at C.U.R.E. over the last nine weeks! So far, I’ve successfully gotten 12 schools and businesses involved in Penny Drive, raising over $1,000. I also planned out and assembled April Break kits for 20 families, creating fun activities for the kiddos and families over their break. I’ve been actively helping with the upcoming 5K Run & Fun Walk, planning fun post-race activities and other ways to incorporate fairy tales into our event. One of my most rewarding challenges was completing the Spanish Patient Parent binder—it was difficult but so worthwhile in making those materials more accessible to all. Every project has been a meaningful opportunity to support children and families as well as making a difference! - Cassie
Congratulations, Leighton, Ben & Rowen!
Please join us in sending BIG congratulations wishes to our Friends who rang the End of Chemo Bells this month!
Leighton rang her bell proudly at Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Ben celebrated his end of treatment and going home by ringing the End of Chemo Bell at Golisano Children’s Hospital.
We celebrated Rowen in the office at the end of March. His treat of choice? Pretzels and KitKats! We were so happy to gift him with an abundance of both! His brother Milo, cousin Joey and a bunch of his Family came to the office to celebrate his big day with him! His handprint has been added to our Handprints of Hope Wall in our office.
Congratulations, Liliana!
While End of Chemo Bell Ringings are always a cause for celebration, we would like to send EXTRA love to Liliana and her Family. Pictured on the left is her sister, Adriana who joined us in our office in January 2024 to ring the End of Chemo Bell. Liliana is pictured on the right and joined us in the office in March 2025 as she rang the End of Chemo Bell and added her handprint to our Handprints of Hope Wall in our office. They both wore that special rainbow skirt as they joyously celebrated finishing chemo, a little more than one year apart. A cancer diagnosis affects the whole family, and they understand this so well. To commemorate Liliana’s end of treatment, we showered her with Play Doh and accessories to play with the Play Doh as well as her favorite treat. Her sisters got to choose a gift from our supply and both chose Slime Kits (sorry, Mom)!
Spotlight on: Delaney
Meet our Friend, Delaney.
Delaney was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor in early 2025. She loves to dance! Three words used to describe Delaney are:
- Friendly
- Sassy
- Strong
She likes to watch “Bluey” and “Paw Patrol”. Delaney likes saying “Hi!” to everyone.
Hey, C.U.R.E. Parents:
Did you know we have a private Facebook Group JUST for you? Connect with other parents. Ask questions about treatment, education help and more. Learn from others.
Contact us to learn more!
March Parents’ Night Out
𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗮 𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀' 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵!
Twelve parents joined us at Lasertron this month where they tapped into their super, stealth mode! Afterwards, they got a chance to connect over some yummy bites
Your support allows us to provide social programs like 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀' 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁 to our Families, giving them the opportunity to 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 with one another and form a 𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗲 with others who understand what they are going through.
We are offering an exciting new program for a Parent and their C.U.R.E. Child or their Sibling to have a day out together. This first one is a painting class where they will be channeling their Leonardo da Vinci skills. This is another program that we are so grateful to be able to offer thanks to the support of our community.
Every May & June we offer a night out for our C.U.R.E. Moms and Dads individually: a bit different from our regular Parents’ Night Out. Moms get to have their nails done and Dads have been going to a local driving range for a night out. This year, C.U.R.E. Dads will be getting together to go to iSMASH. This will be a smashingly great time for them to connect with each other and have some fun too. We are so grateful to be able to offer these outings for our Families to be able to meet others going through their child’s diagnosis of cancer or a chronic blood disorder.
Be sure to reach out to Carol if you’re a C.U.R.E. Dad who would like to attend!
SAVE THE DATE for A.P. Enterprises Property Services annual Easter Egg Hunt with proceeds benefitting C.U.R.E.! Tickets are $5 per attendee (C.U.R.E. immediate family members are free- check the C.U.R.E. Parent Facebook Group and Programming email for more info). The fee covers Egg Hunt (for children 12 and under), exploration of A.P. construction equipment, face painting, crafts & more. Food and raffle tickets are available for purchase!
C.U.R.E. Families: C.U.R.E. Children and their immediate household family members are invited to join for free!
Jeffrey Charles Sewell Memorial scholarship: Deadline extended to April 15th!
Last year, the scholarship was received by Lena and Sara.
The Jeffrey Charles Sewell Memorial Scholarship was established by a founding C.U.R.E. Family in honor of their late son. This scholarship seeks to assist young people who were supported by C.U.R.E. and are currently attending or plan to attend college or trade school in 2025.
The JCS Memorial Scholarship winner will receive a one-time, $2,000 award to be applied towards their continuing education. Eligibility for this scholarship:
Cancer survivors who have been supported by C.U.R.E.; and
Have been accepted, are currently enrolled, or are a prospective student with plans to enroll into a 2-year, 4-year, or trade school.
If enrolled, must be in good standing with their college or institution.
Award winner can re-apply for the JCS Memorial Scholarship for each year they are enrolled in college or trade school.
Criteria:
The JCS Memorial Scholarship winner will be someone who has demonstrated a commitment to continuing education amidst life’s challenges, including the journey of surviving childhood cancer.
Though not a requirement, students pursuing education in science, medicine, social work, or other health sciences with career plans in children’s cancer are strongly encouraged to apply.
Click below to apply:
Resources:
Childhood Cancer Survivor Scholarship and Employment Resources:
Children's Cancer Cause is assisting childhood cancer patients, survivors and families by centralizing most national resources that provide scholarships for survivors of childhood cancer or those with particular effects. The site also has resources and advice relating to employment and applying for these scholarships.
Some opportunities require commitment to a childhood cancer advocacy project while in college, while others make you eligible for you just being you. But you do need to apply! Be sure to read the instructions and qualifications very carefully. Apply in plenty of time to get feedback from family, guidance counselors and others.
Summer Camp Registration is NOW OPEN!!!
Get ready to explore, discover, and make unforgettable memories as we go Beyond the Reef this summer at Camp Good Days! Friendships, adventure, and endless fun await!
YOU can help C.U.R.E. for FREE
Follow us on social media:
Facebook: facebook.com/curekidscancerrochester
Instagram: @curekidscancer_
Twitter: @curekidscancer_
TikTok: @curekidscancer_Write a review about C.U.R.E. on our Facebook Page or on Google.
Write a blog that can be shared on our website.
Contact our Parent Advocate Michelle or Elena about doing an Instagram Takeover.
“Like”, Share or Comment on our social media posts.
Research & Advocacy:
Conquer Cancer in Kids:
make childhood cancer research a priority:
We invite our families and supporters to join CNN’s Rene Marsh as she advocates to make childhood cancer research a priority! Sadly, Rene lost her two year old son, Blake, to brain cancer in April 2021. She is now working with CNN and childhood cancer awareness advocates to make a difference!
To review and sign the petition, click the button below.
Petition to the Biden Administration to increase funding for childhood cancer research. This effort was started through awareness from The Ellen Show.
81,090 signatures of 150,000 wanted (as of 11/25/2024)
Learn more about Bill A6430B
Creates the Sickle Cell Disease detection and education program
Sponsored by Hyndman
Bereavement Group
Our meeting on April 2nd was a Parent’s Night Out for a chocolate tasting class at Laughing Gull Chocolates.
In May, our Bereavement Group will follow our annual Brick Laying Ceremony at the office. Please consider joining us.
Wednesday, May 7th at 7 PM
200 Westfall Road, Rochester, NY 14620
No RSVP is required
If you have any questions, please reach out to our Bereaved Family Advocate, Diane (diane.valentine@curekidscancer.com)
At our June Bereavement Group, we will be planting a memorial planter that you can take home.
Wednesday, June 4th at 7 PM
200 Westfall Road, Rochester, NY 14620
RSVP will be required - more info to follow soon!
*Not on our Bereaved Family email list or our private Bereaved Family Facebook Group and would like to be? Contact Diane to get added.
Did you know? For children who have experienced the death of a sibling from childhood cancer, SuperSibs offers additional mailings through the Grief and Loss Mailing Program.
This program includes...
💛 Grief support and resources specifically for parents
💛 4 mailings per year for two years with activities designed to help SuperSibs to cope with their grief and feelings
💛 A special remembrance on the anniversary of their sibling’s passing
Learn more about this free program for siblings:
Click Here To Check it Out
THANK YOU to everyone who made C.U.R.E.'s 9th Annual Trivia Night presented by Democrat and Chronicle/LocaliQ a BIG success! From the trivia goers, to our donors, sponsors, volunteers, Comedy at The Carlson for hosting us! Between trivia, raffles, baskets, yummy food, and some surprise dancing, it was a great night.
With your help, we were able to raise over $10,000 for our Families! We are so grateful for everyone who came out to support our organization - the generosity & kindness in the room was overwhelming. Because of you, we are able to provide meaningful support for Families!
Thank you Rochester Regional PA Association!
We are so thankful to the RRPAA for selecting C.U.R.E. to receive donations through their annual conference. A wide variety of baskets and raffle items were available to attendees who purchased tickets for their chance to win. With $3,500 raised to support our mission and the work we do at C.U.R.E., we feel like the real winners. Thank you for your kindness and your commitment to all you do within the medical community!
Crafting for C.U.R.E.!
Students in Mrs. Brongo’s class at Churchville-Chili High School raised over $1025.50 this winter crafting and selling holiday Cee Cee (their school mascot) decorations! Students crafted 120 decorations this year, working as a team to design, cut, sew and glue the materials together to create the finished product. In addition to raising money, they also used a portion of those funds to donate supplies purchased from C.U.R.E.’s wish list.
We are so grateful they chose to support C.U.R.E. this year! Meeting this classroom was extra special as they had a personal connection to C.U.R.E and every one of them was so kind and supportive! Thank you Mrs. Brongo’s class!
Jersey Mike’s is the best!
Our Friends at Jersey Mike’s have been so kind to us in the last year and we are so grateful they continue to support our mission! In February, they hosted a three day fundraiser at both their Monroe Ave. and Clinton Ave. locations. Together, they raised $531 for our Families! Thank you Jersey Mike’s for your generosity and always thinking of our Families. You are making an impact in our community!
C.U.R.E. Passed Go!
On February 25th, the Rochester Edition of Monopoly made its debut at the Strong Museum of Play! Our Friends at Top Trumps featured C.U.R.E. as one of the many local properties on the board, and of course it was a yellow property! Along with C.U.R.E., you will see other cultural sights & historic landmarks like the George Eastman House, the Federick Douglass–Susan B. Anthony Memorial Bridge and even the garbage plate!
We are so honored to be a part of something so special that celebrates Rochester and our community!
Shopping For a Cause!
Shopping For A Cause is an event that brings together local vendors to showcase their talents and crafts while supporting a local organization. Last November, C.U.R.E. was one of the organizations supported at the event. They were able raise $855 for C.U.R.E.!
We are so grateful for everyone who participated either as a vendor, shopper, or donor! Thank you for making a difference for our Families!
Be Well & Do Good with Yoga Plus!
Our Friend, Audrey from Yoga+, hosted two yoga nights at Schutt’s Apple Mill in Webster in February and March. Each night included candlelit yoga with cider tastings to follow! Altogether they raised nearly $70 for C.U.R.E. and spread awareness of childhood cancer.
Thank you, Audrey, for the light and love. Your efforts of being an advocate and introducing others to C.U.R.E.’s mission are so deeply appreciated. Namaste.
Please give a hand for our Volunteer of the Month….
Mark Ippolito
Mark Ippolito has been involved with C.U.R.E. as an advocate for many years. Last month at Trivia Night, Mark stepped up to the plate and volunteered his time as emcee for the event! He did a fantastic job engaging with trivia goers and bringing the energy! Mark is also the Director of Operations at Comedy @ The Carlson where the event was held and made sure everything was perfect for the night.
Thank you, Mark, for bringing your charisma and helping the event to be so successful! We are so grateful for your generosity & kindness towards our organization.
We need your help at the 5k Run/Walk!
Want to be a part of this year’s 5k Run & Fun Walk but prefer to be behind the scenes? Then come help volunteer! We will need volunteers to help set up pre-run, check in participants, be active along race routes, and help facilitate at the post-event celebration. If you are interested, please click the link below:
Say Cheese!
We are looking for local photographers who would be willing to donate their time occasionally to photograph our End of Chemo Bell Ringings in the office. If you are interested in joining our volunteer email list for this project, please click the box below. When we are notified of an upcoming End of Chemo Bell Ringing, we will reach out to our network of photographers and will work on a first-come-first-here basis. We would love to build up our volunteer photographer list for these special occasions!
Join our Board of Directors!
We have some Board positions opening up! Are you interested in applying?
The Board meets monthly for 1.5 - 2 hours (Currently the third Wednesday evening of the month from 5:30 - 7:30)
Board members must attend two of the three main fundraisers (5k & Fun Walk, Golf Tournament, Brunch)
Board members are on at least one sub-committee
Board members make a monetary donation for the Board sponsored Live Auction package for the Brunch
Applications can be emailed to:
cureboardapplications@gmail.com
Calling all Former Board Members:
If you served on the Board of Directors for C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association, we would love to stay connected! We are hoping to plan an Alumni Board event in the near future! Please email Holly Dutcher to connect!
holly.dutcher@curekidscancer.com
The 16th Annual 5k Run & Fun Walk presented by Cornerstone Wealth Management is BACK!
Our story begins at Brighton Meridian Centre Park where we'll defeat dragons (and hills) together along our journey. Below are some of the ways YOU can participate this year:
Options to walk or run for adults & children of all ages! Virtual is also an option
Create a team and start fundraising! The site makes it easy to link your Facebook so that others can join your team and donate
Warrior walkway signs are available for purchase and are a great way to honor or remember your kiddo to encourage our participants to finish the race strong
There will be prizes for C.U.R.E. Champions who raise $50+, $100+, $250+, $500+, $1,000+, $2,500+ and $5,000+! Check out the website for details
Various activities will be available following the race, fun for the whole family!
Team t-shirts can be customized through Bonfire again!
I
nvite others to join your team and buy matching shirts.
Have friends joining your team from out of the area? This is the perfect solution, as shirts will be mailed directly to them!
Even better - a portion of the shirt sales will be donated to C.U.R.E.!
Click the button below to join our Facebook Event to stay up to date on any new challenges, information, and so much more!
Honor Your C.U.R.E. Kiddo!
Warrior walkway signs are available for purchase and are a great way to honor or remember your kiddo. The Warrior Walkway is right before the finish line for runners & walkers to see!
Click the link below to purchases yours today:
Small Change, BIG Difference!
Do you want to join forces with C.U.R.E. and participate in our Annual Penny Drive? We make it easy! We can decorate and deliver jugs for your to facilitate your collections. We will also pick up your donations. No change rolling or counting required! Contact our office if your school or business would like to participate!
Raffle Baskets Needed!
We are in need of Raffle Baskets to be auctioned off at future fundraising events. Things like local business gift cards, lottery tickets, experiences, coffee themed, spa, alcohol, spring themed, etc.
If you are interested in donating one, please reach out to Sammi Jo to coordinate. Click the button below to send an email directly to her:
Interested in helping with C.U.R.E. events?
We are looking for volunteers to join committees for both our Golf Tournament and the Sunday Brunch! The Golf Tournament consists of participants from various backgrounds that help organize, solicit donations & sponsors, and work closely with the events coordinator on day of details.
The Sunday Brunch has multiple committees you can join based on your interests: PR & Marketing Committee, Live Auction Committee, Registration Committee and the Dining Room Committee (the last two must be able to volunteer the day of).
Click the links below to learn more and sign up!
Qualified Charitable Distributions:
To transfer funds from your IRA to C.U.R.E., please follow these step-by-step instructions:
(1) Contact your financial advisor or representative at the financial institution that holds your IRA.
(2) Tell your representative that you wish to make a QCD from your IRA to C.U.R.E.
(3) Request a check made payable to “C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association” and indicate that it is a “qualified charitable distribution from the account of (your name).
(4) For wire transfers, contact request transfer instruction from C.U.R.E.
(5) Tax ID information: C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association Federal Tax ID: 51-0215037
(6) Please contact C.U.R.E. and let us know to expect a payment.
Please note that the maximum QCD is $100,000 per year per person, with married couples with separate IRAs eligible to give up to $200,000 per year. Transfers to donor-advised funds, supporting organizations, private foundations, charitable remainder trusts, and charitable gift annuities do not qualify. The transfer is tax-free and is not included in your adjusted gross income (AGI), thus there is no charitable deduction. A transfer is not subject to AGI limitations on charitable deductions. C.U.R.E. recommends you consult with your estate attorney and/or financial advisor prior to requesting a QCD to C.U.R.E.
Become a C.U.R.E. Ambassador!
The Support Doesn’t Stop When Treatment Stops…
Because of YOU and your kindness.
Support our mission year-round by becoming a C.U.R.E. Ambassador! A C.U.R.E. Ambassador is a donor who commits to our mission through a monthly donation of his/her choosing. Whatever level you are comfortable with makes a difference!
Embrace the Difference
Did you know that we partner with Reeds Jewelers on their Embrace the Difference campaign? With the Easter, Mother’s Day and Graduations approaching, we hope you’ll consider grabbing a gift from Reeds Jewelers Embrace the Difference Collection and make a difference to our Families (all while giving a beautiful gift!).
We also have exclusive bracelets here at C.U.R.E. with our logo on them that make beautiful gifts!
Round Up for C.U.R.E.!
We are thrilled to share that we are now part of the Walmart Spark Good program! You can select “C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association” as your charity of choice and round up your purchases! The rounded up change will be donated to C.U.R.E.!
STEP 1: Visit walmart.com/sparkgood and sign in to your Walmart.com account.
STEP 2: Search for a favorite charity.
STEP 3: Once you choose a charity, go to the Round Up box and click "Select this Charity"
STEP 4: Review the FAQs and the Terms of Use.
C.U.R.E. Partners:
You can now return your cans and bottles to Alpco Recycling and Bottle & Can Retrieval Centers! Let them know you’d like to support “C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association” and a donation will be made to us!
Alpco Recycling is located at:
846 Macedon Center Road, Macedon, NY 14502
Bottle & Can Retrieval Centers located at:
509 Spencerport Rd, Rochester
2199 East Henrietta Rd, Rochester
2374 Chili Ave, Rochester
More ways to help:
Hailey and her Family have been saving aluminum can tabs for C.U.R.E. for many years now. The photo is Hailey standing in an oil drum of tabs surrounded by 14 oil drums FILLED with can tabs! They bring the drums to the scrap yard and then donate the proceeds to C.U.R.E. Those proceeds are then applied to the cost of parking vouchers for our Families.
You can bring your can tabs to our office at 200 Westfall Road, 14620 during business hours and we will collect them for Hailey and her Family.
We hope you think of Hailey and her program while you are at family gatherings, picnics and other fun summer activities this summer that may include aluminum cans!
C.U.R.E. has joined the PayPal Giving Fund. Please consider adding us to your account to Shop, Donate and Raise Awareness for our families.
PayPal Giving Fund expands our fundraising reach through direct integration with PayPal, eBay and GoFundMe.
We are so grateful to the community for all of the wonderful donations we receive throughout the year. We could not service all the families we do without this generous support. If you or a community group you belong to is looking for something to do for a charity, please consider donating items from C.U.R.E.’s wish list so that we can continue to provide for our families:
A cure for childhood cancer, blood diseases and brain tumors!
- SQUISHMALLOWS! ALL SIZES! The kids love them!
- Journals for Kids and Teens
- Gift cards for Wegmans, Tops, Wal-Mart, Target and gas cards
- Gift cards for GrubHub, McDonalds, Wendy’s, Burger King, Moe’s, Chipotle, Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks
- Gifts for teens or young adults
- Toys (Please look at our Amazon Wish Lists:
Under $20: https://a.co/hlW4hCO
$20 - 50: https://a.co/eHiQcV2
$50+: https://a.co/bVDujCy)
We ask that all items be new and recently purchased. Thank you!