So many things pass under our radar simply because we never thought they existed. A whole host of services, products, and resources is available to kids with cancer and their families – all for free! The trouble is families aren’t always aware of them. Thus, they can’t benefit.
We’re spreading the word. Here are some incredible FREE resources, products, and opportunities for pediatric cancer patients. We’ve done our best to curate a national list not limited to just a few metro areas or hospitals.
8 Free Things for Pediatric Cancer Patients
#1 – Cancer Kickers Soccer Club Gear
It would be a significant oversight not to mention the free gear offered through our organization, the Cancer Kickers Soccer Club. You can nominate anyone 18 and under battling cancer or in remission through our website. From there, we craft a customized jersey for them with their favorite number and nickname. They get the jersey and plenty of free Cancer Kickers gear, all for free!
#2 – Compassion Can’t Wait
Are you a single parent who has a child with cancer? Compassion Can’t Wait is here to help with everyday expenses when you’re at a financial wit’s end. Eligible candidates can ask their hospital’s social worker about a form submission. This organization aims for a speedy turnaround between application and financial relief in the parent’s pocket.
#3 – Endure to Cure Travel Assistance
Many families must endure a constant back-and-forth between doctor’s appointments and procedures. The last thing they need is the financial burden of travel expenses. This program – free to cancer patients under 18 or actively being treated before their 21st birthday – offers financial aid for food, airfare, lodging, gas, and other costs associated with transportation.
#4 – Wigs for Kids
Realistic wigs composed of real human hair can get expensive. Wigs for Kids provides free, custom-fitted hair replacement systems valued at $1,800 for children experiencing hair loss as a side-effect of cancer treatment. These wigs are not only made with the utmost care, but they’re made-to-measure and customed to fit your child’s style.
#5 – Cayden’s Care Packages
Cayden’s Care Packages are unique in two significant ways. First of all, they don’t offer cookie-cutter care packages. Applicants can choose from four options that are modified based on the patient’s age: bath boxes, surprise boxes, toy boxes, and creative boxes. Not only that, but they give a package to any of the patient’s siblings so they can share in the fun, too!
#6 – Roc Solid Foundation Ready Bags
No one is ready for a cancer diagnosis. The Roc Solid Foundation seeks to provide care and comfort for pediatric cancer patients by providing a free “ready bag” that includes toiletries, a blanket, a tablet, and other essentials for an unexpected hospital stay. They’re available in over 100 children’s hospitals across the nation. Ask the hospital social worker or child life specialists about availability – or contact the Roc Foundation directly!
#7 – Bright Box by Bright Spot Network
The Bright Box is a simple but highly effective concept. Kids with cancer are tired. Their parents are exhausted. Why not give them something to do during long doctor’s visits and hospital stays? The Bright Box contains 6 art projects (including instructions and necessary materials) created with cancer patients in mind. They don’t demand too much mental or physical energy, but they’re fun and help unleash some creativity during trying times.
#8 – JoyRx Music
Music is a powerful force and a healing tool. JoyRx “prescribes” music to cancer patients that need to experience joy. Their free resources include one-on-one and group music experiences by trained musicians, exclusive performances from some of their favorite music artists, musical games, and digital instrument lessons. Most lessons are for guitar and ukelele, but there are also options for keyboard, saxophone, and percussion instruments!
Whether your child wants to listen, learn, or play, they can discover the healing and joy-filled world of music.
This is far from a comprehensive list of resources. Countless organizations offer care packages, financial aid, grants, camp experiences, wishes, and resources for kids with cancer…all for free! The best thing you can do is research what’s out there and ask your child’s hospital social worker or other relevant staff members about availability.