DC Candlelighters ~ because kids can't fight cancer alone!

Please join us Tuesday, January 24th!

2012-01-20T22:48:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, January 24th 6:00 - 8:30pm
Dinner, Resource Fair and Kids Activity
RSVP - please click flyer for details

2011-12-30T12:43:00.004-05:00

During this holiday season, we extend our sincere gratitude for your support of DC Candlelighters. As an all-volunteer organization, we rely on your generosity to assist families facing the fear, helplessness, and financial and family pressures that grow out of a childhood cancer diagnosis.

Because of supporters like you, we ARE making a difference in the lives of families in the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland affected by childhood cancer. While cancer diagnoses overall are decreasing, the number of children diagnosed with cancer each year is increasing. In these difficult economic times, the assistance DC Candlelighters provides to families is more needed than ever. This year, DC Candlelighters has provided 35 families with gas cards to help ease the financial burden of travel to treatment centers. Through our financial assistance program, we have helped over 70 families pay the rent, make a car payment, or meet hospital and pharmacy co-pays. Please help us continue to provide this vital assistance!

In addition to this financial assistance, DC Candlelighters provides a range of programs:

 Monthly parent support dinners featuring speakers addressing topics important to parents of children in-treatment and off-treatment.

 Fun activities for families of children undergoing cancer treatment.

 Patient Care Bags that include toiletry essentials, information about childhood cancer, a hand-made blanket, a toy, a binder or journal to help parents keep track of treatments and a book light.

 Academic scholarships for survivors whose lives are forever changed by the harsh chemotherapies, radiation treatments and arduous surgeries they endure.

We know we are asking for your help at a time of great economic uncertainty. Given the current situation, your gift means so much more. Children fighting cancer and the families who stand beside them need your support now and throughout the year.

Your gift of any amount will make a difference!

Just as generosity knows no season, hope for children with cancer knows no limit.
May you find joy this season in knowing your actions bring hope to the lives of many.

With HOPE,

DC Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation

Your gift is tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Please make checks payable to:

DC Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation
P.O. Box 2324
Centreville, VA 20122

To donate by credit card or PayPal, please go to the bottom of our How You Can Help webpage and click the Donate button. Donations can be made with a credit card or directly from a bank account.

Thank you, in advance, for your tax-deductible donation.

11/29 Parent/Family Night~Understanding Pain in Pediatric Oncology

2011-11-27T19:37:00.003-05:00

Don't forget to sign up for Family Night, Tuesday, November 29th
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Children's activity and Dinner provided
Click the flyer below for more details:

Have you Placed a Ribbon on the Awareness Tree?

2011-11-18T10:17:00.001-05:00

Order yours Now!

Saturday is the first day that the Gold Ribbon Childhood Cancer Awareness Tree will stand in downtown Washington D.C. Every year, the Crossett family organizes the construction of this awareness symbol on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, and the first batch of hundreds gold ribbons adorn its branches. Each ribbon represents a child who has or has had cancer, so the Awareness Tree is covered by thousands of childhoods altered or even lost to this terrible disease. This is a powerful symbol that is seen by thousands of people every year; passersby are touched by the sheer volume of ribbons and names. To celebrate the lighting of the tree, ACCO hosts a ceremony and invites families for a FREE evening of, food, entertainers, games, and crafts. We invite you to add the name of a child with cancer to the 2011 Awareness Tree, and if you are able to, we would love for you to join us on December 3rd for the lighting ceremony.

Order a Ribbon

Click to visit the 2011 Tree Lighting Page

Fall 2011 News

2011-11-18T09:35:00.005-05:00

Check out our Fall Newsletter! <==Click for information on past and upcoming events

Web Conferences Available from NCCS Beyond The Cure

2011-11-15T16:31:00.002-05:00

Advocating for School Support: Preparing for College and the Work Force
10/27/11 2:00PM CDT

Presenter: Maria Gilb, MA Psychology, Counselor III Vocational Rehabilitation
Kit Maxwell-Weis, M.Ed., MAC Assistant Director/
ADA Coordinator

Click Here

Advocating for School Support: For the Parents of Childhood Cancer Survivor
10/25/11 2:00PM CDT
Presenter: Staff from the Kirkwood, MO School District
Thurma Deloach, PhD – Executive Director of Special Programs
Leslie Johnson, MA – School Counselor
Julie Tadros, RN – School Nurse

Click Here

Mini's Mission - Burn Rubber to Help Another

2011-10-29T10:40:00.006-04:00

Looking for some inspiration and good news in the world of childhood cancer? Check out this NBC Nightly News feature on how “Mini” Timmy Tyrrell is making a difference for families fighting childhood cancer through Mini’s Mission – Burn Rubber to Help Another.

We are thrilled to spread the word about Mini’s Mission, which donates 100% of funds raised to the Jeffrey Virostek Fund. The Jeffrey Fund has helped DC Candlelighters provide financial assistance, scholarships, books and new patient bags to our local families. Fundraising efforts such as Mini’s Mission and the Angel Kisses 5K, held on Mother’s Day each year, directly impact families in the DC metropolitan area who are fighting childhood cancer.

Huge thanks to the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation for matching Mini’s fundraising! Go Mini – Go Jeff!

October Events!

2011-10-18T17:26:00.001-04:00

Click here for Upcoming Events ~ Halloween Party, Adult Survivors Workshop, Bereavement Workshop and APHON Scholarship!

Attention Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

2011-10-12T13:18:00.002-04:00

This four part series is one part of TACwork, a new program of the Thriving After Cancer program and is a collaboration of GWCI and the GW Graduate school of Education and Human Development.

The workshops are aimed at older adolescent (16-18) and adult survivors. Full benefit comes from attending all four workshops; however, each workshop is designed to stand alone with information that will help guide survivors in today's challenging job market. Please RSVP for each session you plan to attend.

2nd Annual Family Halloween Party!

2011-10-06T17:14:00.003-04:00

BOO!! Wear a costume and join us for ghoulish fun and games!

PLEASE JOIN DC CANDLELIGHTERS FOR A FAMILY DINNER & HALLOWEEN PARTY!
Tuesday, October 25th
6:00-8:30 PM
Life with Cancer Family
Center
8411 Pennell Street
Fairfax, VA 22031
Pediatric oncology families of all ages are welcome ~ on and off treatment.
Come in costume for dinner, fun & treats!
RSVP DCCandlelighters@gmail.com,
Lisa Tignor 703-590-4134
Connie Connor 703-531-1515
constance.connor@inova.org

Photos from CupcakeCamp DC 2011!!

2011-10-04T23:37:00.002-04:00

We wanted to share some of the pictures from DC CupcakeCamp. This was such a fun event that not only raised awareness of childhood cancer, gold ribbons and September awareness month, but over $1000 for DC Candlelighters! We are so very grateful for this donation, and the chance to educate more people about childhood cancer. Check out the blog, and the photostream below...just try not to LICK your screen. :)

News: Collaborating to Fight Kids' Cancer | workingmother.com

2011-09-29T23:47:00.001-04:00

Special thanks to AJ's Dad, and PAC2 - DC Candlelighters is proud to be a part News: Collaborating to Fight Kids' Cancer | workingmother.com

Beyond the Cure Upcoming Web Conferences

2011-09-28T22:51:00.003-04:00

Beyond the Cure - Upcoming Web Conferences

Advocating for School Support
A Two-Part Series

Part 1: For the Parents of Childhood Cancer Survivors
Date: Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Time: 2:00-3:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Staff from the Kirkwood, MO School District
- Thurma Deloach, PhD – Executive Director of Special Programs
Leslie Johnson, MA – School Counselor
Julie Tadros, RN – School Nurse

Part 2: Preparing for College and the Work Force for Parents and Survivors
Date:Thursday, October 27, 2011
Time: 2:00-3:00 PM CDT
Presenters: Maria Gilb, MA Psychology, Counselor III Vocational Rehabilitation
Kit Maxwell-Weis, M.Ed., MAC Assistant Director/ADA Coordinator

To register, click here

For a list of archived conferences, click here

News from DC Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation

2011-09-15T18:35:00.000-04:00

News from DC Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation

Childhood Cancer Video created by Cong. McCaul and Cong. Van Hollen

2011-09-12T22:53:00.003-04:00

Congressman McCaul and Congressman Van Hollen just released the following video in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Please note that the Creating Hope Act of 2011 press conference tentatively scheduled for 9/22 has been moved to 8:15 a.m. on 9/23 in Congressional Meeting Room South, which is one room over from the CVC Auditorium, where the Childhood Cancer Summit will be housed. It was felt that doing the press conference back to back with the Summit would generate more press interest in the bill and the event.

2nd Annual Childhood Cancer Summit

2011-09-11T12:32:00.002-04:00

Please join Congressman Michael McCaul and
Congressman Chris Van Hollen

On behalf of
The Congressional Childhood Cancer Caucus

2nd Annual Childhood Cancer Summit
Panel Discussion

Friday, September 23, 2011

Capitol Visitors Center (CVC) Auditorium
8:00 a.m. breakfast
9:00-10:00 a.m panel discussion

Please join us on Friday, September 23, 2011 from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. in the CVC Auditorium, for an important panel discussion on pediatric cancer drug development, including a message from actor Dennis Quaid. A breakfast will be offered from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.

Cancer remains the number one cause of death by disease in children, with nearly 40 children diagnosed every day. While survival rates have significantly improved for some types of pediatric cancers, 2,300 children are lost to this disease every year. Furthermore, for those who survive their grueling battle, three out of every five suffer from debilitating and life-threatening conditions as a result of their disease and treatments.

Due to the unique nature of pediatric cancers, drug research and discovery lags behind that of adults. In fact, in the past twenty years, there has been only one new drug approved to treat pediatric cancer that was not already approved for adults. At the upcoming Summit, a distinguished panel of experts will discuss barriers to progress and policies to accelerate the development of safe, effective pediatric cancer drugs.

The panelists include:

Dr. Peter Adamson
Chair, Children’s Oncology Group

Dr. Ron Portman
Development Lead, Pediatric Center of Excellence, Bristol Myers Squibb and Chair of BIO’s Pediatric Drug Development Committee
Dr. Eugenie Kleinerman
Head, Division of Pediatrics, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Nancy Goodman
Founder and Executive Director, Kids V Cancer

For more information about the Summit or to RSVP, please contact Andy Taylor (McCaul) at 202-225-2401 or andy.taylor@mail.house.gov.

Parent & Kids 5+ - Join Us for Dinner & Fun Night of Yoga!

2011-09-08T18:03:00.004-04:00

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011
6-8:30 pm
Life with Cancer Family Center
8411 Pennell Street
Fairfax, VA
RSVP Constance.connor@inova.org or dccandlelighters@gmail.com
Click to enlarge the flyer below:

2nd Annual CupcakeCamp DC Supports DC Candlelighters!

2011-08-29T22:40:00.007-04:00

What: CupcakeCamp DC
When: Saturday, September 24, 2011 | 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Local 16 | 1602 U St NW, Washington DC
Who: Cupcake lovers!
What’s Next? RSVP pronto, this event sold out last year! Follow their blog for news and event updates

Read more @ DCEventJunkieSweet Event for a Sincere Cause

Removing Cancer from the Race

2011-08-18T17:44:00.003-04:00

Removing Cancer from the Race

Check out this Connection News article. Infinity & Beyond's Sam Davenport visited DC Candlelighters last week, donating $5000 toward our financial assistance program. Sam is raising funds while biking the eastern US, and we were honored to be one of his chosen charities!

46 Mommas Shave for the Brave - DC!

2011-07-24T18:51:00.002-04:00

DC Candlelighters would like to share this exciting event:

Save the Date!
Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011
5pm-9pm
Union Station, Washington, D.C.

46 Mommas

will be shaving their heads to help raise awareness of childhood cancer and raise funds for the St. Baldrick's Foundation to support childhood cancer research.

Join us for a powerful evening

to honor the children fighting cancer,

the survivors and those we have lost.

To learn more about the
46 Mommas and our mission, visit:
www.46mommas.com

To learn more about the

St. Baldrick's Foundation, visit:

www.StBaldricks.org

For more information or questions, please e-mail info@46mommas.com

Epigenetic pathway and new drug show promise in reversing a hard-to-treat childhood cancer - Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

2011-07-20T18:14:00.001-04:00

Epigenetic pathway and new drug show promise in reversing a hard-to-treat childhood cancer - Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

A difficult-to-treat form of childhood leukemia relies on changes in the structure of DNA – so-called epigenetic changes – to wreak genomic havoc within white blood cells, according to one of two studies conducted by a research team at Children's Hospital Boston and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

High-Dose Methotrexate Extends Event-Free Survival for Children with Leukemia

2011-06-23T14:25:00.001-04:00

High-Dose Methotrexate Extends Event-Free Survival for Children with Leukemia

From the NCI Bulletin:

Children’s Oncology Group researchers have shown in a phase III clinical trial that radically increasing the dose of methotrexate used to treat patients with high-risk B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-cell ALL) significantly improves 5-year event-free survival (that is, survival without any serious health events) when compared with the current standard of care. The trial results were presented last week at the ASCO annual meeting.

In the current standard of care, known as the Capizzi regimen, patients are started on a low dose of methotrexate, and the dose is increased gradually over time. Methotrexate is then followed by treatment with a second chemotherapy drug called asparaginase. In the new approach, however, patients are given a dose of methotrexate that is about 50 times the starting dose in the Capizzi regimen, and asparaginase is not used.

Read more

Act Now -NCI Funding to be Discussed on Capitol Hill

2011-06-08T18:25:00.001-04:00

From our friends at Curesearch:

Restoring National Cancer Institute funding to 2010 levels for fiscal year 2012 is a top priority for CureSearch for Children's Cancer. The appropriations process on Capitol Hill is underway, and the Labor -Health and Human Services -Education bill (through which NIH and NCI receive funding) will be discussed soon. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Richard Burr (R-NC) are working hard to ensure the National Cancer Institute continues to receive the funding necessary to support ongoing research and discovery. To that end, they sent a letter to their colleagues asking them to sign onto the letter of support. As of today, Senators John Kerry (D-MA) Pat Leahy (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) are also supporting this endeavor. Call your senators TODAY and ask that they also sign onto the letter from Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Richard Burr (R-NC) in support of NIH funding.

The deadline for senators to contact Senator Casey’s office is TOMORROW, June 9, so CALL YOUR SENATORS NOW!

MD
Sen. Ben Cardin Phone : (203)224-4524 and. Sen. Barbara Mikulski (202) 224-4654.

VA
Sen. Jim Webb Phone: (202) 224-4024 and Sen. Mark Warner Phone: (202) 224-2023

P.S. If you live in Massachusetts, Vermont, or Oregon, you might want to thank Senators John Kerry (D-MA), Pat Leahy (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), for already signing this important letter.

Action alert!

2011-06-06T17:55:00.001-04:00

If you haven't already done so, please contact your senators and ask them to sign Senator Reed and Isakson's "Dear Colleague" letter.Time is running out to tell your senators to fund the Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act. As a reminder, senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) recently sent a "Dear Colleague" letter to their fellow senators urging them to invest in children's cancer research, surveillance, and education by funding the Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act in the 2012 budget.

http://www.kintera.org/c.8hKOI3MFIjI2E/b.6440521/k.82B3/Action_Items/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=8hKOI3MFIjI2E&b=6440521&aid=16035Your senators have until today, June 8 to sign onto this letter, so email or call: Sen. Jim Webb Phone: (202) 224-4024 or click above link

6th Annual Survivor's Conference: I'm Cured, Now What?

2011-06-06T10:15:00.005-04:00

Teens 16 and over, please mark your calendar! DC Candlelighters is proud to co-sponsor the survivor conference again in 2011. See brochure and registration form below for details. Click to open each page, or go to www.lifewithcancer.org to register online.

Childhood Cancer News

2011-06-06T09:41:00.003-04:00

Chemotherapy Regimen Positively Impacts Survival
for Children and Adolescents with Leukemia
Childhood Cancer Increases Risk for Future GI Complications

High-dose chemo regimen improves survival in children with hard-to-treat neuroblastoma

Childhood Cancer Survivors At Increased Risk Of Certain Tumors In Middle-Age

Long-term Risks of Subsequent Primary Neoplasms Among Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Angel Kisses 5K!

2011-05-05T15:00:00.001-04:00

Angel Kisses 5K!

http://www.angelkisses-5k.org/
Come join us for the 8th Annual Angel Kisses 5K Run/2K Fun Run and Walk on Sunday, May 8th, 2011 @ 8:00 am.

This race was created in honor of a special little boy, Jeffrey Virostek, who lost his brave battle with leukemia on September 25, 2003, at the age of 4 1/2. Angel Kisses is a fund-raising 5K/2K Race to benefit the Jeffrey Virostek Fund, a component fund of the Northern Virginia Community Foundation. DC Candlelighter's financial assistance fund is made possible by the generosity of the Jeffrey Virostek Fund.

To participate, donate, or volunteer for this event, please visit: http://www.angelkisses-5k.org/default.htm

Elements of Wellness: Everything is Illuminated

2011-04-29T10:42:00.003-04:00

Parents of children with cancer often feel that friends and family can't or don't understand what they're going through. Kids on chemo and steroids are often tired, cranky and labeled spoiled. Well-meaning friends and family think they need more discipline and less coddling, while stressed out parents are walking a tight rope trying to balance work, family and life-threatening disease. It's nice to know that someone outside the childhood cancer world "gets" it. Read this blog entry by one of our wonderful massage therapists who has volunteered with us at our pampering night for parents:

Elements of Wellness: Everything is Illuminated: "There are just those moments in life when you experience something so profound that it awakens your entire being. I believe that if you are..."

NIH Recruiting for Study of Childhood Cancer Survivors

2011-04-22T12:16:00.002-04:00

07-CH-0192 Announcement
IRB approved 4/11/11

Pediatric cancer survivors study for children and adults 2-24 years of age. You may be eligible to participate in a clinical research study that will evaluate, screen and provide long-term follow up for any prevalence of childhood cancer-related treatment side effects for cancer survivors. This study will be on an outpatient basis and may require other tests such as MRI and blood draws. If you have had a childhood cancer, you may be eligible to participate. For more information call 1-800-411-1222, TTY 1-866-411-1010 or visit www.clinicaltrials.gov. Refer to study 07-CH-0192. The NIH is part of the Department of Health and Human Services.

Jel-Sert Take a Pop and Share a Smile

2011-04-11T13:19:00.014-04:00

Inova Fairfax Hospital received a freezer full of freezer pops last month from our friends and childhood cancer supporters at Jel-Sert.

"The patients and families are very excited about the popsicles, and the design on the freezer is very friendly and colorful. It is amazing that something as simple as popsicles can make a child happy and help them get through a tough time."

~ Holly Senn, Child Life Coordinator

As anyone familiar with cancer treatment knows, hydration and eating is often a problem due to mouth sores from chemo. The folks at Jel-Sert recognize that they can provide this practical support to kids in cancer treatment, while also promoting awareness of childhood cancer on their products and contributing to research. Jel-Sert is placing 100 freezers in treatment centers around the country! Also, be sure to look for their childhood awareness campaign on boxes of Fla-Vor-Ice, Otter Pops and Pop Ice packages.

DC Candlelighters receives JYPI grant of $500!

2011-04-11T13:05:00.007-04:00

DC Candlelighters is honored to be chosen as a grant recipient of the Jewish Youth Philanthrophy Institute (JYPI).

JYPI teens "contribute to their group’s collective grant fund, which is matched dollar-for-dollar by generous donations from members of the community. Dynamic presentations and site visits to community agencies help youth understand the special funding needs of organizations working to make a difference in our world. Participants make funding decisions based on grant proposals submitted by a variety of local, national and international nonprofits representing both the Jewish and secular communities."

The $500 check was presented by Alex Schwab at the awards ceremony on April 3rd.

Huge thank you to Alex and JYPI!

DC United & Extreme Recess/Dreams for Kids

2011-04-06T21:57:00.003-04:00

Check out Extreme Recess Soccer with The DC United!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011 from 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM (ET)

Call for Action - Call Congress to Save Cancer Research Funding!

2011-04-06T10:29:00.007-04:00

Friends,

We're forwarding this from the American Childhood Cancer Organization, formerly the national headquarters of Candlelighters. Please, take a moment to read and call your member of Congress.

Negotiations are currently underway within Congress to finalize an appropriations bill for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2011. While we do not know the specific dollar amount recommended for the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), we do know that there has been significant push to reduce the current funding levels to FY 2008 which would have a devastating impact on cancer research funding.

ACCO encourages all families to CALL your Members of Congress in support of NIH/NCI funding. Calls are recommended instead of letters as this issue is time-sensitive. The following are key points to use during these calls....

April 26th Parent Night ~ Relax with Reiki, Massage & Yoga!

2011-04-01T17:14:00.001-04:00

Please join us on April 26th for a special evening of dinner and relaxation techniques. A separate children's program for ages 5-12 will be offered simultaneously.

RSVP to dccandlelighters@gmail.com

Beyond the Cure Free Web Conference ~ School Issues

2011-04-01T16:54:00.001-04:00

2011 General Conference Series
The NCCS also sponsors regular web conferences for caregivers and healthcare professionals. The 2011 series focuses on "Optimizing the Lifelong Health of Childhood Cancer Survivors."

To register for a web conference please click on the link:

School Issues

Date: Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Time: 1:30-2:30 pm CDT
Presenter: Daniel Armstrong, PhD

NIH News on Cancer Rates

2011-03-31T20:31:00.002-04:00

Report to nation finds continued declines in many cancer rates;
special feature highlights changes in brain tumor rates and survival

In this report - while "Rates of death in the United States from all cancers for men and women continued to decline between 2003 and 2007, the most recent reporting period available.....childhood cancer incidence rates (rates of new diagnoses) continued to increase while death rates in this age group decreased. Childhood cancer is classified as cancers occurring in those 19 years of age or younger."

Two Great Ways to Help the Cause!

2011-03-21T15:31:00.004-04:00

We've just learned of two great awareness and fundraising events that can help the pediatric cancer community as well as adults with brain tumors and sarcoma.

1. Support the Track-A-Thon for the National Brain Tumor Foundation at Chantilly High School on March 27th. Click on the flyer for details:

2. Please vote daily for the ~ Nick & Friends NASCAR Car ~ Only 9 days left to vote!

Please remember to vote today, tomorrow, and every day for the next 10 days. Vote
from your computer at work, vote from every computer you have at home, ask your
co-workers to vote, ask your neighbors to vote, ask everyone you see to vote. We need all the help we can get.

Some have asked about the design, so here is a description of the car:

Each ribbon has a name of a sarcoma warrior. There are over 500 names on this car,
There are over 500 personal interest stories on this car. Some warriors have won their battle with this beast and are in remission. Some have relapsed and have to fight this beast again. Some have just started their fight, And some fought the battle of their lifetime; however they earned their wings and are now at peace.

Parent Night 3/22/11 ~ Financial Planning and Medicaid Waivers

2011-03-01T14:37:00.000-05:00

Registrtion is Necessary!
Please RSVP to Connie Connor, LCSW, 703-531-1515 or
constance.connor@inova.org regarding the number of adults and children attending

Dana Brown Charitable Trust Awards Grant to The National Children’s Cancer Society

2011-02-11T16:20:00.001-05:00

Dana Brown Charitable Trust Awards Grant to The National Children’s Cancer Society

NCCS Upcoming Web Conferences

2011-02-08T22:46:00.007-05:00

Beyond the Cure – 2011 Web Conference Series

The National Children's Cancer Society is pleased to offer free web conferences for survivors, parents/guardians and healthcare professionals that address the lifelong impact of a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

You may register for a conference below. Or, click here to view archived web conferences.

2011 General Conference Series
The NCCS also sponsors regular web conferences for caregivers and healthcare professionals. The 2011 series focuses on "Optimizing the Lifelong Health of Childhood Cancer Survivors."

To register for a web conference please click on the appropriate link:

The Endocrine System
Date: Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Time: 1:30-2:30 pm CST
Presenter: Abby Hollander, MD

Transitioning Off Treatment
Date: Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Time: 1:30-2:30 pm CST
Presenter: Wendy Hobbie, CPN, MSN, FAAN

School Issues
Date: Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Time: 1:30-2:30 pm CST
Presenter: Daniel Armstrong, PhD

Parent Night - Awareness & Advocacy Day

2011-02-08T21:16:00.002-05:00

Help Us Win $5,000 toward Our Mission!

2011-02-05T23:45:00.003-05:00

DC Candlelighters needs your help! We have an opportunity to win the $5,000 prize that GuideStar USA, Inc., the leading source of nonprofit information, and KIMBIA, a group that empowers nonprofits and other organizations to increase giving, are making available through their Winter 2011 GuideStar-KIMBIA Nonprofit Giveaway. This generous gift would help us accomplish our mission, specifically providing educational, emotional, financial and practical support to families battling childhood cancer. Anyone with firsthand knowledge about us—donors, volunteers, board members, recipients of our services—can write a review about us on GuideStar. Your review will appear in our profile on both GuideStar and GreatNonprofits, GuideStar’s partner that makes it possible to write and post reviews. There is no charge for writing a review, but you are limited to posting only one review for our organization.

To write a review, please click on http://www2.guidestar.org/organizations/26-2254258/candlelighters-childhood-cancer-foundation-dc-metro-area/review.aspx

For more information, see the official rules at http://www2.guidestar.org/rxg/update-nonprofit-report/sweepstakes-official-rules.aspx. The giveaway ends at 11:59 p.m. EDT, February 28, 2011.

THANK YOU!!

Children's Cancer Awareness and Advocacy Day

2011-02-02T23:31:00.005-05:00

On Tuesday, February 22nd, DC Candlelighters' Parent Night will be an information and planning session for our participation in the 2011 Children's Cancer Advocacy Day. Several of our families have visited Capitol Hill year after year with Curesearch to tell their stories to their legislators. This is your chance to be heard! Join us on Feb. 22nd at Life with Cancer, 8411 Pennell Street, Fairfax, VA. Children's activity and dinner provided. RSVP to DCCandlelighters@gmail.com

See below for details/registration for Children's Cancer Awareness and Advocacy Day.

On March 16-17, 2011
Children’s Cancer Awareness and Advocacy Day
Advocates and Children’s Cancer Organizations Nationwide
will come Together on Capitol Hill to be Heard!

Children's Cancer Awareness and Advocacy Day

This year, more than ever, we need to make certain that Congress continues
to invest in research for pediatric cancers so that every child is guaranteed a cure!

Our legislative agenda will highlight the need for:

1.Increased children’s cancer research funding.
2.Increased incentives to rapidly advance the development of new life saving treatments.
3.Increased support and education for survivors.

Parenting a Chronically Ill Child

2011-02-02T21:17:00.006-05:00

This survey is being done by the University of Southern Mississippi.

** A one dollar donation will be made to pediatric cancer research for every COMPLETED survey!! **

To access the survey, click:
Parenting a Chronically Ill Child

The purpose of this research is to gain a better understanding of factors that may influence the stress that parents of children with cancer experience.

Participating individuals will be asked to complete questionnaires related to various ways parents cope with the stress of parenting a chronically ill child. The survey will take an estimated 30 minutes to complete. Participation in this project is completely voluntary.

By investigating the potential factors related to parenting during a child’s active cancer treatment, we can gain information that can be used to increase positive family outcomes. Identifying mothers who are at an increased risk of parental stress and identifying the factors that potentially decrease the risk of stress can lead to better intervention and prevention in the future. In addition, the information obtained from this research can be used to inform future research endeavors. An incentive for participation is a one-dollar donation toward pediatric cancer research for every completed survey.

Capitals Special/Sled Hockey Clinic!

2011-02-02T21:01:00.000-05:00

( * Note: please only register your child with a disability as a participant )

Friday, February 11, 2011 from 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM (ET)

Arlington, VA

For details and to register, please visit: http://extremerecesscaps.eventbrite.com/

Pediatric Oncology Parent Night - Transplant Issues

2011-01-24T21:21:00.000-05:00

December Parent Dinner, Gift Wrapping & More!

2010-12-05T18:22:00.000-05:00

Please join us!

Parent Night ~ Complementary Therapies

2010-11-16T22:38:00.001-05:00

Families on and off treatment ~ Please join us next Tuesday! RSVP to DCCandlelighters@gmail.com or constance.connor@inova.org.

2010 Gold Ribbon Holiday Awareness Tree Lighting!

2010-11-16T21:37:00.001-05:00

Cancer Research Highlights

2010-11-16T20:10:00.002-05:00

From National Cancer Institute:
Mutated Gene Linked to Poor Survival in Acute Myeloid Leukemia, Novel Drug Effectively Shrinks Tumors in Hodgkin Lymphoma, See also: A Cancer Genome Is Sequenced, Revealing Rare Mutations

Check out Macy's Believe Site!

2010-11-15T16:50:00.001-05:00

Check out Macy's Believe Site!

I believe... in the spirit of the season, in making wishes come true and that you're never too old to write a letter to Santa! Get in the spirit... check out Macy's Believe site today!

In the News: Lighting a Candle for Cancer Patients

2010-10-28T16:57:00.002-04:00

Check out this article about DC Candlelighters and a couple of photos from our Halloween party!

Lighting a Candle for Cancer Patients

DC Candlelighters on to National StayClassy Awards!

2010-10-26T07:32:00.003-04:00

We previously posted about the StayClassy award competition and asked you to vote for DC Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation for small charity of the year. Thanks to the support of the community, DC Candlelighters WON that title, and is now competing with 7 other city winners for the national title and $10,000!

Now, for more exciting news. How cool would it be to raise $85,000 for kids with cancer??? We are asking for your support to raise $$ and awareness by voting for the following finalists who support childhood cancer - LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD!!!

To vote, visit: http://www.stayclassy.org/classy-awards/ or click the banner at the top of this page. Check the following boxes and be sure to click "Submit my Ballot"

DC Candlelighters (Small Charity - Washington, DC)

The Brad Kaminsky Brain Tumor Foundation (Charity of the Year - Washington, DC)

St. Baldrick's Foundation LA (Most Creative Fundraiser)

Bear Necessities (Social Media)

Patrick Mc Carrick (Volunteer of the Year)

UCLA Sigma Nu/Kappa Kappa Gamma (College Student/Org)

Erica Linz- Circus Couture (Most Successful Fundraiser by Ind/Group)

Towers Watson (Philanthropic Business of the Year)

Jim Brady's Bar & Restaurant (Philanthropic Small Business of the Year)

Please vote NOW, but no later than November 5th!

DC Candlelighters Video

2010-10-12T22:10:00.001-04:00

Teen Halloween Party

2010-10-12T15:51:00.000-04:00

Please VOTE for DC Candlelighters to Win $10K!!

2010-10-09T10:14:00.002-04:00

DC Candlelighters has been chosen as a Top 5 Finalist in the NBC Washington StayClassy Award Small Charity of the Year category! Voting begins today and ends on October 22nd.

The prize is $10,000 in cash and in-kind services, which would enable us to help many more families. As you know, many families are struggling financially, and families with a child in treatment for cancer are especially in need. With a simple click of your finger, you can help us to win this contest!

Please vote for DC Candlelighters and share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and email:

Vote for DC Candlelighters to win $10,000!

THANK YOU!!!

Family Dinner & Halloween Party!

2010-10-07T09:23:00.002-04:00

Cox Farms Rescheduled for October 2nd!

2010-09-28T23:38:00.000-04:00

Cox Farms Pumpkin Patch Day POSTPONED

2010-09-26T10:13:00.001-04:00

Due to rain, we've had to postpone the Candlelighters Family Day at the Pumpkin Patch. Please check back tomorrow for the new date.

Pediatric Oncology Parent Night - Tuesday Sept. 28

2010-09-23T16:26:00.001-04:00

Free Telephone Conference ~ September 28, 2010

2010-09-23T16:04:00.002-04:00

Cancer Treatment May Impact School: How to Convince Your Child's Teacher

Presented by Beyond the Cure

Conference time zone is Central Time
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
2 - 3 p.m. CT
Presenter: Mindy Aylward, RN, BSN, CPON.
Oncology Outreach Educator-- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Akron Children's Hospital.

Who should participate?
The National Children’s Cancer Society has designed the web workshops for parents/guardians, nurses and social workers.

Register at Beyond the Cure

Advocates press for action on children's cancer legislation - The Hill's Healthwatch

2010-09-21T20:32:00.000-04:00

Advocates press for action on children's cancer legislation - The Hill's Healthwatch

Drug Protects Heart in Children Receiving Common Chemotherapy

2010-09-21T20:21:00.001-04:00

Drug Protects Heart in Children Receiving Common Chemotherapy

Children treated with an anthracycline have more than a threefold increased risk of cardiac death 30 years after treatment compared with their untreated peers.

The drug dexrazoxane, which can protect heart tissue from the oxidative damage caused by doxorubicin and other anthracycline drugs, significantly reduced the occurrence of long-term heart damage in children undergoing treatment for high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Top Docs, Researchers Urge Congress To Step Up Childhood Cancer Fight

2010-09-17T14:28:00.001-04:00

Top Docs, Researchers Urge Congress To Step Up Childhood Cancer Fight

"McCaul and Sestak will roll the panels' recommendations into a legislative agenda that includes:

- Incentives for drug development (S. 3697): would give pharmaceutical companies that bring a new pediatric drug to market priority review status for a more profitable drug they are developing

- Grants for specialized training to primary care physicians to better identify side effects and re-occurrence of symptoms (HR 2109)

- Greater access to clinical trials

- Greater emphasis on survivorship and impact of childhood cancer on families

- Full funding of the Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act (passed in 2009) to increase pediatric cancer research at the National Cancer Institute and create a pediatric cancer registry at the Centers for Disease Control

Most recently, through their efforts on the Caucus, McCaul and Sestak have helped secure $4 million in childhood cancer research funding for FY 2010.

Facts About Childhood Cancer

- Leading killer of children in the United States among diseases
- Kills more people each year ages 1-20 than asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, and AIDS combined
- 35 children are diagnosed each day
- Studies and drug development specific to pediatric cancers remain underfunded
- Since 1980 only one new drug has been approved for treatment of childhood cancer, compared with 50 that have been approved for adults
- For every $6 in federal research per AIDS patient and every $1 per patient with breast cancer, a child with cancer receives only 30 cents
- 3 out of 5 survivors will suffer life-long side effects"

Source:
Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX10)

President Obama Proclaims September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

2010-09-10T23:26:00.001-04:00

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release September 10, 2010 Presidential Proclamation--Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Each year, thousands of children face the battle against cancer with inspiring hope and incredible bravery. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, an entire family and community are affected. The devotion of parents, grandparents, loved ones, and friends creates a treasured network of support for these courageous children. During National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we honor the young lives taken too soon and the survivors who face chronic health challenges, we celebrate the progress made in treatment and recovery, and we rededicate ourselves to fighting this disease so all children may have the chance to live a full and healthy life.

While survival rates for many childhood cancers have risen sharply over the past few decades, cancer is still the leading cause of death by disease for young Americans between infancy and age 15. Too many families have been touched by cancer and its consequences, and we must work together to control, and ultimately defeat, this destructive disease. I invite all Americans to visit Cancer.gov for more information and resources about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of childhood cancers.

Tragically, the causes of cancer in children are largely unknown. Until these illnesses can be cured, my Administration will continue to support investments in research and treatment. The National Cancer Institute, the Federal Government's principal agency for cancer research, is supporting national and international studies examining the risk factors and possible causes of childhood cancers.

The health reforms included in the landmark Affordable Care Act advance critical protections for individuals facing cancer. Provisions in the law prohibit insurance companies from limiting or denying coverage to individuals participating in clinical trials, the cornerstone of cancer research. After recovering from cancer, children can no longer be denied insurance coverage due to a pre-existing condition. It also requires all new plans to provide preventive services without charging copayments, deductibles, or coinsurance, increasing access to regular checkups that can help detect and treat childhood cancers earlier. The Affordable Care Act eliminates annual and lifetime caps on insurance coverage and prohibits companies from dropping coverage if someone gets sick, giving patients and families the peace of mind that their insurance will cover the procedures their doctors recommend.

This month, we pay tribute to the health-care professionals, researchers, private philanthropies, social support organizations, and parent advocacy groups who work together to provide hope and help to families and find cures for childhood cancers. Together, we will carry on their work toward a future in which cancer no longer threatens the lives of our Nation's children.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2010 as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. I also encourage all Americans to join me in recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to fighting childhood cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

Pepsi Refresh Project ~ Fund Less Toxic Therapy for Children

2010-09-10T12:23:00.002-04:00

This idea is currently in 7th place for a $250,000 grant!

FUND LESS TOXIC THERAPIES FOR CHILDREN WITH CANCER
Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation

Please go and vote here (you can vote each day in September):

http://www.refresheverything.com/armswideopenchildhoodcancerfoundation

Congressional Pediatric Cancer Caucus hosts first Childhood Cancer Summit

2010-09-07T20:12:00.001-04:00

NEWS: The Congressional Pediatric Cancer Caucus will be
hosting its first Childhood Cancer Summit on September 16, 2010 from 9am
-10:30am in 2325 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC.

In recognition of September as Childhood Cancer Awareness month, the Pediatric Cancer Caucus, co-chaired by Joe Sestak (D-PA) and Michael McCaul (R-TX), is planning a summit to educate Members of Congress and staff on issues related to childhood cancer. This briefing will provide information on a variety of topics from research, to drug development, to survivorship.

Panels of experts will be presenting the information, including Dr. Susan Weiner, Children's Cause for Cancer Advocacy's President and Founder, Cynthia Duncan, Director of Advocacy at CureSearch , Dr. Peter Adamson from Children's Oncology Group, Nancy Goodman from KIDS V CANCER, and doctors from Texas Children's Cancer Center, Children's Cancer Hospital at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia and Memorial Sloan Kettering.

These participants will address current legislation that promotes drug development and survivorship, as well as needed advancements in the field of childhood cancer to better treat and prevent this disease.

Inside NCI: A Conversation with Dr. Crystal Mackall about Pediatric Oncology

2010-09-07T19:58:00.001-04:00

Inside NCI: A Conversation with Dr. Crystal Mackall about Pediatric Oncology

The chief of NCI's Pediatric Oncology Branch (http://pediatrics.cancer.gov/) talks about the research being done in her lab at NCI and areas of pediatric cancer research where researchers are poised to make major advances. The video was originally published in the NCI Cancer Bulletin (http://www.cancer.gov/ncicancerbulletin/) on September 7, 2010.

September is Childhood Cancer Month!

2010-09-02T16:27:00.006-04:00

Spread awareness! Thirty facts - one for each day of the month. Please share this list with your family and friends.

Don't forget to wear the Gold Ribbon in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Visit the Candlelighters store for awareness items.

Let's make the Gold Ribbon as recognizable as the Pink Ribbon!

30 Childhood Cancer Facts

1. One in every 330 American children will be diagnosed with cancer before age 20.

2. The average high school has 2 students who are cancer patients or survivors. One in four elementary schools has a child with cancer.

3. Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of 15 in the US.

4. The causes of most childhood cancers are unknown. It can not be prevented.(Many adult cancers result from lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, occupation, and other exposure to cancer-causing agents)

5. On average, 36 children in the US are diagnosed each day with cancer.

6. Childhood cancer occurs regularly, randomly and spares no ethnic group, socioeconomic class or geographic region. In the US, the incidence of cancer among adolescents and young adults is increasing at a greater rate than any other age group, except those over 65.

7. Childhood cancer research is vastly and consistently underfunded.

8. Chemotherapy was first shown to be effective in childhood cancer.

9. The discovery of the first tumor suppressor gene occurred in children with cancer.

10. The National Cancer Institute’s budget is $4.8 Billion. The total for all grants related to childhood cancer is $173 Million. That’s only 3.6% of the federal governments cancer budget. Aren’t our kids worth more than that?

11. Some types of childhood leukemia have survival rates over 90%. Some types of brain tumors have a 0% survival rate. If it’s your child, it’s either 0 or 100%. Anything else means nothing.

12. Overall, nearly 80% of children diagnosed with cancer survive. While 80% on a test is pretty good, the deaths of one out of every 5 children diagnosed is not.

13. Two-thirds of children who are cured of cancer in childhood end up with at least one long-term health problem arising from their treatment. One-third have severe complications such as mental retardation, lung damage or congestive heart failure. In all, they are four times as likely to have serious health problems as their siblings.

14. The Children’s Oncology Group/CureSearch is an NCI funded pediatric cancer research cooperative group. They treat over 90% of US kids diagnosed with cancer. St. Jude’s Research Hospital has a world class public relations dept, and they do excellent research, but they don’t treat nearly as many kids as CureSearch-COG doctors do.

15. 10,400 children are diagnosed with cancer every year. 2,000 of them die each year.

16. Become a regular blood donor. Kids in cancer treatment often need blood products.

17. Over the past 20 years, there has been an increase in the overall rate of childhood cancer.

18. Leukemias and brain tumors are the most common types of childhood cancer accounting for more than half of all diagnoses.

19. There is no “good” cancer. Never, ever say this to a parent.

20. Treatment for the most common types of leukemia goes on for over 3 years. Most adult cancer treatment is counted in months.

21. Just because a child’s hair has grown back, does not mean that treatment is over.

22. Adolescents and young adults have a higher rate of survival when treated on pediatric treatment plans compared to adult plans.

23. Cancer is not contagious.

24. Children in treatment often have lowered immune systems and can’t fight off simple germs like colds and flu. Stay away if you’re sick.

25. Childhood cancer effects the whole family. If you can, befriend a sibling-they could use the attention and support.

26. Research is the only hope for finding a cure for childhood cancer.

27. What not to say to a parent: What did you do to cause the cancer? Have you tried (fill-in-the-blank herbal cure)? I don’t know how you do it-I could never handle it. (real quotes)

28. A parent may have a smile on their face as they talk to you, but that doesn't mean they don't cry in the night, it only means that they are trying to make you comfortable so that you will keep talking to them. Families in cancer treatment become very isolated. After a while, they stop telling you how their child really is when you ask, because they learn that people want to hear “fine” and move on.

29. Send jokes to the family effected by cancer. Nobody needs to laugh more than someone hanging out on a kids cancer ward.

30. If your child is a friend of a child with cancer, encourage that friendship. Kids with cancer miss a lot of school and need friends to keep them connected.

DC Candlelighters Families are Invited to Cox Farms Day!!

2010-09-02T16:00:00.003-04:00

We've been nominated for a Classy Award!

2010-08-23T15:27:00.006-04:00

Check it out -- And be sure to vote for us this Fall!

The winner of the small charity of the year in our area will win $10,000!

New Jersey Nursing News | Memorial Sloan-Kettering RNs Pilot Neuroblastoma Therapy

2010-07-26T12:18:00.001-04:00

New Jersey Nursing News | Memorial Sloan-Kettering RNs Pilot Neuroblastoma Therapy

Childhood-cancer survivor tells tale of hope, overcoming odds - pressofAtlanticCity.com

2010-06-23T14:12:00.001-04:00

Childhood-cancer survivor tells tale of hope, overcoming odds - pressofAtlanticCity.com

Check out Alesia Shute's book about her battle with colon cancer, diagnosed at the age of 7.

Blinatumomab - Possible New Treatment for ALL?

2010-06-21T09:40:00.002-04:00

Micromet’s Cancer Missiles Lure Boehringer, Sanofi (Update2)

From Businessweek (June 14, 2010, 4:25 PM EDT):

"What Micromet has developed is a way to activate T-cells, the elite troops of the immune system, to attack malignancies, including a rare leukemia that strikes children. It has signed partnerships with five of Europe’s largest drug companies: Bayer AG, Sanofi-Aventis SA, AstraZeneca Plc, Merck KGaA and Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH."
...
"The disease blinatumomab is designed to treat, acute lymphocytic leukemia or ALL, isn’t common, but it is a high priority for some doctors. One reason is that two-thirds of the 5,400 new cases in the U.S. each year are children, many of whom only survive with painful chemotherapy that continues for years."
...

Extreme Recess Baseball Clinic with the Washington Nationals

2010-06-19T15:22:00.007-04:00

Dreams for Kids contacted DC Candlelighters to let our families know about Extreme Recess baseball clinic at Nationals Park! Open the flyer and related forms, and hurry...spots are limited!

Saturday, July 10th
Nationals Ball Park
Washington, DC
Join in the fun as the Washington Nationals and Dreams for Kids partner on a large scale for an Extreme Recess baseball clinic for kids with all abilities! We will be hosting 100-150 kids for a full day with the team and trained professionals. Kids will be able to practice with the players and coaches in the stadium and on the field and each participant will also be given two tickets to that evening's game for free! Lunch will also be provided for participants. There are limited spots, so call to claim your spot today.

Participant Waiver Form

Volunteer Waiver

Parent Night ~ Reunion and Welcome Reception & Dinner

2010-06-15T23:02:00.000-04:00

Help Transplant Grants for Kids Pepsi Refresh Project*

2010-06-07T22:42:00.004-04:00

With just the click of your mouse (and without spending a dime) you can help raise $100,000 to help families of children who need a bone marrow transplant!

Here's how: Pepsi has invited three NASCAR drivers to take part in a friendly competition to raise funds for their favorite charity. NASCAR champ, Jimmie Johnson, has chosen the *National Marrow Donor Program's Patient Assistance Fund* which helps families pay for food, lodging, travel, prescription co-pays and other expenses that really can mount up during transplant.

In order to win the $100,000, Jimmie needs to get the most votes online for his cause.

Here's where you come in!

Simply *click on this link* to the competition web site and vote for Jimmie Johnson's project to fund *Transplant Grants for Kids*.

There's no limit on the number of times you can vote between now and June 23rd at 6 pm EST.

Ask your family and friends to vote for Jimmie's project too. If you or a
loved one has been through a transplant, you understand just how important this financial assistance can be.

As we say in Chicago, vote early, vote often! Let's make sure Jimmie Johnson
gets the most votes, so that kids who need a transplant get the financial help that they need.

Quiet Heroes

2010-06-02T16:11:00.001-04:00

What is a ‘hero?’ Wikipedia describes a hero as someone who protects, or defends … a guardian who in the face of danger and adversity; or from a position of weakness displays courage, and the will for self-sacrifice, for some greater good.

News Note: Perifosine Effective in Treatment of Neuroblastoma Tumors in Mice

2010-06-02T15:45:00.000-04:00

From the NIH Nealon Digest:

News Note: Perifosine Effective in Treatment of Neuroblastoma Tumors in Mice (5/13/10)

The Influence Cancer May Have on My Child's Sexual Function

2010-05-18T19:30:00.002-04:00

Free Teleconference by Beyond the Cure: The Influence Cancer May Have on My Child's Sexual Function

Date: May 26, 2010

Register Here

2 – 3 p.m. CT
Presenter: Sage Bolte, ABD, LCSW, OSW-C. Oncology counselor for Life with Cancer ® a not-for-profit organization supported by INOVA Cancer Services

This free telephone workshop is for parents and professionals. It is the second of two programs to be presented on the late effects from the treatment of childhood cancer that impact sexual function. Nurses will benefit from both of these programs obtaining information from a professional perspective and the family’s point of view.

The purpose of the teleconference is to provide information for the parents of a child diagnosed with cancer that facilitates communication with the health care team regarding the long term effects from treatment on sexual function. Nurses will identify the concerns of these families have to facilitate the education process.

This teleconference will:
• Identify side effects from the treatment of childhood cancer that affect sexual function
• Describe ways to facilitate a discussions about sensitive issues regarding infertility, sexuality and intimacy
• Identify helpful ways to introduce sensitive information and resources that are available

CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR NURSES
Goal
Nurses participating in this series of teleconferences will receive the knowledge that facilitates the necessary discussions that need to occur when the treatment of childhood cancer impacts a child’s sexual function. The goal is to establish the willingness and comfort to discuss this sensitive information that will improve their nursing practice.

Target Audience
Nurses involved in the treatment of children diagnosed with cancer.

Contact Hours
One (1) contact hour will be awarded per session for a total of two (2) for the completion of the series.
In order to receive the contact hours provided the participant must register and participate in the entire teleconference as verified by a report generated by teleconferencing service (If multiple listeners are participating at one site, a moderator should fax a sign-in sheet to 314-735-2019) and complete an evaluation within 30 days online through Survey Monkey. After 30 days the link will be removed and contact hours will no longer be awarded.

The National Children’s Cancer Society is an approved provider of continuing
nursing education by the Missouri Nurses Association, an accredited approver by
the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

May 25th Parent Night ~ Managing Side Effects

2010-05-18T18:15:00.004-04:00

Please join us next Tuesday evening for Managing your Child's Side Effects during Treatment. In addition to this program, a pizza dinner and simultaneous children's program will be offered. Life With Cancer, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and DC Candlelighters cosponsor this program. Click on the picture above for more information.

Our next Candlelighter's/Life with Cancer Parent Night will be Tuesday, June 22nd, from 6 - 8:30 pm.

All program offerings will be held at the Life with Cancer Family Center at 8411 Pennell Street, Fairfax, VA 22031

Other Upcoming Life With Cancer Dates:

For Children ages 5 - 12 Off Treatment: We are continuing to offer an "Off Therapy" monthly support group for those children who have completed therapy. The group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 4:15 - 5:30 pm. Call Jenny Eckert, LCSW, at 703-698-2536 or email jennifer.eckert@inova.org for more information.

For Kids and Sibs: "Kids with Cancer and Super Sibling Support Day" for children ages 5 - 12, Monday, June 28th, from 10 - 4 pm. Please register with Jenny Eckert, LCSW, at 703-698-2536 or email jennifer.eckert@inova.org.

For Teens: "Movie/Game Night for Teens", 13-18, on Friday, June 25th. Fun filled night with Wii, foosball, pool, movies, etc. from 7 - 9 pm. Please RSVP to Jenny Eckert, LCSW, at 703-698-2536 or jennifer.eckert@inova.org.

For Teens, 17 and over and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: "Save the Date" for Tuesday, July 27th, from 6:30 - 9 pm, for dinner and a speaker (TBA), plus a chance to win several $1000 college scholarships offered by Growing Hope. Contact Connie Connor at 703-531-1515 or constance.connor@inova.org for more information.

Mother's Day ~ 7th Annual Angel Kisses 5K Run/2K Fun Run and Walk

2010-04-22T22:48:00.004-04:00

Come join us for the 7th Annual Angel Kisses 5K Run/2K Fun Run and Walk on Sunday, May 9th @ 8:00 am.

This race was created in honor of a special little boy, Jeffrey Virostek, who lost his brave battle with leukemia on September 25, 2003, at the age of 4 1/2. Angel Kisses is a fund-raising 5K/2K Race to benefit the Jeffrey Virostek Fund, a component fund of the Northern Virginia Community Foundation. DC Candlelighter's financial assistance fund is made possible by the generosity of the Jeffrey Virostek Fund.

To participate, donate, or volunteer for this event, please visit: http://www.angelkisses-5k.org/default.htm

Parent Night ~ Dinner, Massage, Reiki....ahhhh...!

2010-04-18T20:48:00.003-04:00

Abby Miller Rocks for Children's Cancer this Sunday!

2010-04-10T09:53:00.002-04:00

This Sunday 75 DC-area musicians join Abby Miller in her campaign to Rock Children's Cancer

Herndon, VA

On several weekends over the past two years, 12-year-old Abby Miller from Sterling, VA has performed outside of strip malls and train stations to raise money for Taylor Love, a 4-year-old from Ashburn who is battling neuroblastoma. Abby gets a helping hand as 75 local musicians from 15 bands join her this Sunday, April 11th for "Let's Rock Children's Cancer." This is an all-ages benefit concert that will run from 2 PM until 10 PM at Ned Devine's of Herndon. All proceeds will go to the Band of Parents Foundation which is raising money to treat neuroblastoma.

(Note: this is an event that is 100% music. Mostly classic rock. There will not be crafts and games like there were at the Candlelighters' tree lighting ceremony so this is mostly an event that will appeal to adults and kids over 12.)

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth under 18. Tickets are available at the door or at www.studiorocknova.com.

Joining Abby will be: Margot MacDonald Band, Patty Reese, Iris Divine, Dr. FU, Bill Mulroney and Second Wind Bandits, StudioRock Musicians, Lightspeed Rescue, Rain Maxwell, Sobriquet, Katherine Thorsey, Mercury in Summer, Indecision, Full Tilt and Hathaway Brown. The MC is "Little John" Caniford from JJDL Radio.

The event is sponsored by StudioRock of Northern Virginia, a performance-base rock music school in Potomac Falls, VA. Approximately 30 students from the school will perform during the concert.

Taylor Love was diagnosed three years ago with Stage IV, High Risk Neuroblastoma. After undergoing countless procedures and operations, she is currently in remission but there is a 90% chance her cancer will return. Her doctors at Sloan Kettering Memorial Cancer Center in New York City have developed an antibody that they believe is 100 times more effective than any previous treatment. They need $800,000 in order to move forward with this treatment. All proceeds for this fundraiser will fund this treatment.

Ned Devine's is located at 2465 Centreville Rd, Herndon, VA 20171

Contact: Mike Gillette: 703-407-6520 or mikegillette@hotmail.com

Jel Sert Click for a Cure!

2010-03-29T23:59:00.006-04:00

For each new fan of Fla-Vor-Ice and Otter Pops Fan Pages, $1 will be donated to American Childhood Cancer/Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation! Last year Jel Sert was the first company to promote childhood cancer awareness and this year they've expanded to more products with the gold ribbon.

Be sure to click before April 5th!

Click Otter Pops for a cure!

Click Fla-Vor-Ice for a cure!

Click the wall to become a fan, and $1 will be donated by the company on your behalf. While you're at it, check out the comments left for Jel Sert and leave one of your own!

March Parent Night - Endocrine issues during/after treatment

2010-03-15T23:30:00.001-04:00

Upcoming Events

2010-02-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

Announcements for our families:

On Friday, March 19th, from 7 - 9 pm, Life with Cancer will be kicking off their new "Rachel's Teen Scene" room and Teen Activity Program with a fun filled night for all teens with cancer (13-19) or teens affected by cancer featuring a DJ, games, and food catered by Glory Days. Teardrops to Rainbows has decorated a new teen lounge and will be raffling 10, $100 gift certificates to lucky participants. Participants may bring a friend. For more information or to RSVP for your teen, please call Jenny Eckert, LCSW at 703-698-2536, or email jennifer.eckert@inova.org.

DC Candlelighters will co-sponsor the next Pediatric Oncology Parent Night with Life With Cancer and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, which will be held on March 23rd, from 6 - 8:30 pm and will feature Dr. Maya Lodish, Endocrinologist with NIH, who will speak to parents about issues concerning growth and development, fertility and bone health during and after treatment. A separate children's activity group will be offered at this meeting for kids/sibs ages 5 - 12. Please RSVP to Connie Connor @ constance.connor@inova.org or dccandlelighters@gmail.com.

Life with Cancer will plan to have a Kids/Sibs Support Day on Monday, March 29th, from 10 - 4 pm. Lunch and snack provided. Please register your child or children with Jenny Eckert, LCSW by calling 703-698-2536 or email jennifer.eckert@inova.org.

We hope you can attend!

February Parent Dinner & Support

2010-02-16T21:52:00.002-05:00

Parents,

We hope you can join us next week! Click on the flyer below for more details:

Rachel's Teen Scene Kick Off Party !

2010-02-12T23:00:00.002-05:00

Please click on the flyer for more details!

CANCELED - Kids with Cancer and Super Sibling Support Day

2010-02-12T22:59:00.000-05:00

Kid and Super Sibling Support Day which was scheduled for Feb 15th has been canceled due to Fairfax County taking back the holiday. With the uncertainty re snow make up days, we are unable to plan Kid/Sib Days until further notice. Stay tuned for future dates....

Upcoming events - H1N1 Precautions Lifted

2010-01-14T08:04:00.006-05:00

The H1N1 flu precautions have been lifted at Inova Fairfax Hospital and Life with Cancer. We are happy to report that the programs including group children's activities are back!

Some of the upcoming events for both Life with Cancer and DC Candlelighters:
(click on each flier for more information) We hope you can join us!

January 19th and every 3rd Tuesday of the month
4:15 - 5:30 pm
Off therapy group for kids 5-12 years old

January 26th Parent Resource Night
6-8:30 pm
Pizza dinner for the whole family
Kids' activity for 5-12 year olds while parents meet separately

February 15th Kid and Sib Day
10am - 4pm for Kids with cancer and their sibs ages 5-12

All of the above will be held at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 8411 Pennell Street, Fairfax, VA 22031

Happy New Year!

2010-01-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

DC Candlelighters wants to thank all of our supporters and donors for making 2009 a great year! Your continued support will enable us to add more programs for our families.

Abby Miller Performing at Candlelighters Awareness Tree

2009-12-20T18:43:00.005-05:00

The 2009 Gold Ribbon Awareness Tree was lit on December 12th at the Old Post Office Pavilion. If you weren't there to see Abby Miller perform Keep Holding On by Avril Lavigne, check out this video!

Enjoy!

2009-12-07T22:51:00.001-05:00

Parent Night - Relax and Enjoy!!

2009-12-04T18:24:00.003-05:00

Parents,

Hate to wrap packages? Are you stressed about the holidays? Have cabin fever from flu concerns and your child's neutropenic precautions? Come join us for a fun evening of fellowship, dinner from Noodles & Co., fresh baked treats and holiday music. Make 3D gift tags and cards with Stamp It Up! consultant Rose-Ellen Eastman while we beautifully wrap your gifts! Oh, and what could be better than winning a gift certificate door prize? Click on the flyer below for details.

Happy Holidays!

Light the Holidays with HOPE - Awareness Tree Lighting!

2009-11-11T12:13:00.002-05:00

'Light Up the Holidays with Hope’ has become our nation’s largest annual childhood cancer awareness event. Each year during the December holiday season, a 23 foot tree is placed in the lobby of a building in Washington DC. The tree is solely decorated with thousands of gold ribbons (the symbol for childhood cancer). Each ribbon bears the name of a child who has, or has had cancer. The tree glitters strong in our nation’s capitol for all to see. Thousands each year are touched as they are reminded of our nation’s youngest cancer patients.

Each year, a lighting ceremony is held to light the tree, honor our cancer children, and enjoy some fun activities with our families and friends. The event includes guest speakers, musicians, and entertainers that delight the children. Time is given to all families attending the event to come to the podium to pay tribute to their child who was diagnosed with cancer.

Following the program there is a reception and carnival for the children. Activities include spin art, sand art, crafts, face-painting, magic, and carnival games.

Click here to purchase a ribbon with your child's name for the tree or to search ribbons already purchased for 2009.

November 10th - Behavior & Development during/after Childhood Cancer

2009-10-22T19:09:00.003-04:00

Save the date! Click the flyer below for more info:

Teen Night at LWC - Friday, Oct. 23rd

2009-10-22T19:06:00.004-04:00

Calling all teens! Come check out the new teen room at LWC - click on flyer below for details:

TODAY 3pm EST through Monday 10/19 = America's Giving Challenge!

2009-10-18T16:26:00.003-04:00

Please help us win $1000 for receiving the most donations in a 24 hour period. Already we are in 6th place! You only have to give $10 to have your donation count. The contest is for the highest number of donors rather than the total amount that is raised!

Please pass this on to your friends and family. Donate starting at 3:00 pm Sun Oct. 18th and not later than 3pm on Monday the 19th, by clicking on this direct link: http://www.causes.com/donations/select_donation_method?m=eed19519&cause_id=168975

Thanks for your support!

Lisa Tignor
Laurie Weiss
Gail Scheller
Sheri Schaffer
Meg Crossett
Jen Click
Tasha Virostek

Pediatric Oncology Support Dinner ~ Oct. 27th

2009-10-13T20:15:00.002-04:00

Our next support group and dinner will be held Tuesday, October 27th. Parents, grandparents, caregivers and staff are welcome to attend.

Childhood cancer affects all people, so we thought it might be fun and interesting to have a potluck dinner with foods from different countries. So, if you'd like to bring something, let us know. You don't have to bring a dish to attend - we always have PLENTY of food left over!

Please click on the flyer below:

DC Candlelighters ~ because kids can't fight cancer alone!

Please join us Tuesday, January 24th!

11/29 Parent/Family Night~Understanding Pain in Pediatric Oncology

Have you Placed a Ribbon on the Awareness Tree?

Fall 2011 News

Web Conferences Available from NCCS Beyond The Cure

Mini's Mission - Burn Rubber to Help Another

October Events!

Attention Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

2nd Annual Family Halloween Party!

Photos from CupcakeCamp DC 2011!!

News: Collaborating to Fight Kids' Cancer | workingmother.com

Beyond the Cure Upcoming Web Conferences

News from DC Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation

Childhood Cancer Video created by Cong. McCaul and Cong. Van Hollen

2nd Annual Childhood Cancer Summit

Parent & Kids 5+ - Join Us for Dinner & Fun Night of Yoga!

2nd Annual CupcakeCamp DC Supports DC Candlelighters!

Removing Cancer from the Race

46 Mommas Shave for the Brave - DC!

Epigenetic pathway and new drug show promise in reversing a hard-to-treat childhood cancer - Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

High-Dose Methotrexate Extends Event-Free Survival for Children with Leukemia

Act Now -NCI Funding to be Discussed on Capitol Hill

Action alert!

6th Annual Survivor's Conference: I'm Cured, Now What?

Childhood Cancer News

Angel Kisses 5K!

Elements of Wellness: Everything is Illuminated

NIH Recruiting for Study of Childhood Cancer Survivors

Jel-Sert Take a Pop and Share a Smile

DC Candlelighters receives JYPI grant of $500!

DC United & Extreme Recess/Dreams for Kids

Call for Action - Call Congress to Save Cancer Research Funding!

April 26th Parent Night ~ Relax with Reiki, Massage & Yoga!

Beyond the Cure Free Web Conference ~ School Issues

NIH News on Cancer Rates

Two Great Ways to Help the Cause!

Parent Night 3/22/11 ~ Financial Planning and Medicaid Waivers

Dana Brown Charitable Trust Awards Grant to The National Children’s Cancer Society

NCCS Upcoming Web Conferences

Parent Night - Awareness & Advocacy Day

Help Us Win $5,000 toward Our Mission!

Children's Cancer Awareness and Advocacy Day

Parenting a Chronically Ill Child

Capitals Special/Sled Hockey Clinic!

Pediatric Oncology Parent Night - Transplant Issues

December Parent Dinner, Gift Wrapping & More!

Parent Night ~ Complementary Therapies

2010 Gold Ribbon Holiday Awareness Tree Lighting!

Cancer Research Highlights

Check out Macy's Believe Site!

In the News: Lighting a Candle for Cancer Patients

DC Candlelighters on to National StayClassy Awards!

DC Candlelighters Video

Teen Halloween Party

Please VOTE for DC Candlelighters to Win $10K!!

Family Dinner & Halloween Party!

Cox Farms Rescheduled for October 2nd!

Cox Farms Pumpkin Patch Day POSTPONED

Pediatric Oncology Parent Night - Tuesday Sept. 28

Free Telephone Conference ~ September 28, 2010

Advocates press for action on children's cancer legislation - The Hill's Healthwatch

Drug Protects Heart in Children Receiving Common Chemotherapy

Top Docs, Researchers Urge Congress To Step Up Childhood Cancer Fight

President Obama Proclaims September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Pepsi Refresh Project ~ Fund Less Toxic Therapy for Children

Congressional Pediatric Cancer Caucus hosts first Childhood Cancer Summit

Inside NCI: A Conversation with Dr. Crystal Mackall about Pediatric Oncology

September is Childhood Cancer Month!

DC Candlelighters Families are Invited to Cox Farms Day!!

We've been nominated for a Classy Award!

New Jersey Nursing News | Memorial Sloan-Kettering RNs Pilot Neuroblastoma Therapy

Childhood-cancer survivor tells tale of hope, overcoming odds - pressofAtlanticCity.com

Blinatumomab - Possible New Treatment for ALL?

Extreme Recess Baseball Clinic with the Washington Nationals

Parent Night ~ Reunion and Welcome Reception & Dinner

Help *Transplant Grants for Kids* Pepsi Refresh Project*

Quiet Heroes

News Note: Perifosine Effective in Treatment of Neuroblastoma Tumors in Mice

The Influence Cancer May Have on My Child's Sexual Function

Help Transplant Grants for Kids Pepsi Refresh Project*