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"I had equal amounts of fear and anxiety watching him... praying to God that this was not his last race," shares ASK mom Jenny, thinking back to the bittersweet moment she watched her son, Gavin, catch up to the pack and finish first at his swim meet. The next day, he would undergo a biopsy for the mass growing in his right leg and begin the race for his life. "Gavin was very active, into sports. Baseball, swimming, and just any other active 10-year-old thing you can imagine," says Russ, Gavin's dad. "He started to complain of having pain in his right leg, but it would come and go. He would have moments where it hurt and then an hour later he was running around like nothing was wrong." Soon, his intermittent pain became overwhelming. Gavin's pediatrician urged Jenny and Russ to rush their son to the emergency room, terrified and unsure of what to expect. He would have a series of tests that revealed a tumor, and soon after, received the official diagnosis of Ewing Sarcoma in July 2023. "Once we got the Ewing Sarcoma diagnosis, the next day he started treatment. We didn't know that morning we were going to hear every side effect that was going to happen to him. It was one of the hardest days," Jenny recalls. "This is one of those examples of how ASK knows what we need before we need it... Katie Barber snatched up Gavin with a smile and said, 'Let's go play Uno!'" Along with Katie, the Yonce's would meet Rich Catlett, ASK Chaplain, and Anne and Leanne, members of the clinic team at the ASK Hematology/Oncology Clinic at the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU. Every day, they provide a hand to hold for kids and families like Gavin's as they navigate the emotional, spiritual and financial challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. "ASK has always known what we needed before we needed it. We didn't know how we were going to make ends meet and they jumped in and said, 'We'll pay your mortgage. We'll pay your bills,'" Jenny explains. "Jon is another person who jumps in for our homebound. Our homebound has been phenomenal because his teachers are angels, but Jon helps get that paperwork through and makes sure that's one less thing on our plates... ASK has become our community." In October 2023, Gavin underwent rotationplasty surgery to amputate his right leg. It was a difficult decision, but one that would, eventually, help Gavin get back to the things he loved in life: sports, being active, playing with his brothers, Charlie and Luca. Jenny shares how deeply grateful she is for ASK Chaplain, Rich Catlett, who was by Gavin's side during those early morning hours on the day of the surgery, praying over him and the surgeons. "Rich Catlett was another constant for Gavin, who he connected to and felt at ease with. He came in with a smile and could judge if Gavin was up for some sports talk that day or not. He talked about Virginia Tech sports while Gav couldn’t attend the games he usually goes to," Jenny shares. "Rich was always a listening ear for my husband and me. He gave us encouragement and support in the hardest moments. We will always be grateful for Rich supporting our family." - ASK mom Jenny A few months after his surgery, Gavin regained enough strength to start learning how to walk again using a prosthetic leg. On February 18, 2024, the Yonce family celebrated Gavin's final day of cancer treatment with a parade in their neighborhood, where their friends and neighbors lined the streets to surround him with love and support. We're happy to report that in March 2024, Gavin's one-month-out scans came back clear and cancer-free! "It changes who you are. We're all going to be different people because of it. But I think we'll be stronger as a family and stronger in our community," Jenny reflects. "No one wants to live in this world, but once you're there, you need the support and to be able to lean on people... there's power in knowing you're not the only one and that you're not alone, and that's what ASK gives him."

At ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, our mission is clear: to make life better for children with cancer and their families, starting from the moment of diagnosis and extending through treatment and beyond. One way this support is made possible is by our incredible clinic staff at the Children's Hospital of Richmond, who are the first wave of family support that our ASK families receive at the critical moment of diagnosis and throughout their treatment journey. Our dedicated clinic staff includes key members like Katie Barber, ASK Child Life Specialist; Rich Catlett, ASK Chaplain; and Kim Stroud, ASK Family Support Manager, whose roles are directly funded by ASK. Learn more about them below! Katie Barber: ASK Child Life Specialist "Every day is different, and I never know what may happen or who may need me," says Katie Barber, fondly known as "Miss Katie" to our kids. Katie's approach to easing children's anxiety during treatment is both creative and compassionate. She helps children understand and cope with their procedures through medical play and engaging activities. Katie has been making it happen for pediatric oncology patients and their families for more than 15 years at the ASK Clinic at The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. With a background in recreation and child life therapies, Katie is the first—and only—child life therapist funded by the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation. Often, Katie is the first ASK representative to meet a newly diagnosed child at the ASK Clinic. Katie's dedication goes beyond the clinic walls. "I meet every new family, whether inpatient or in clinic, to explain what ASK is and how we can help navigate the confusing and intricate details of diagnosis, treatment, inpatient hospitalization, and clinic," she explains. Katie's presence is a constant source of reassurance and guidance for families facing childhood cancer. Once in clinic for treatment, evaluation or follow-up, Katie continues to act as a liaison for whatever a family may need. "Every child is different, and every family's needs are different. I try to talk to everyone while they are in clinic so we can have a sense of what is most important that day. Whether it's financial assistance, meal vouchers for parents of kids who are hospitalized, gas cards to help get the family to the hospital each day, a child's favorite toy in clinic to help ease the pain of treatment, or organizing an SAT prep course for one of our teenagers, I'm on it!" - Katie Rich Catlett: ASK Chaplain Families often seek spiritual support during the difficult journey through a medical crisis. It is natural to struggle and have questions when the unexpected happens. That’s why the Chaplain position at the ASK Clinic at The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU was the very first position that ASK fully funded to be able to meet the needs of our families. ASK Chaplain Rich Catlett is available wherever your child is along their treatment journey. Rich provides our families with spiritual support that can vary widely and include prayer, addressing concerns about death and the afterlife, dealing with a loss of faith, or discussing ways to use spirituality for strength. Whatever your beliefs, Rich listens to your concerns and helps you process what is happening. Rich has served every family that is treated in the ASK Clinic at the Children's Hospital of Richmond. His typical day is anything but typical, and he purposely doesn't schedule his day so he can adapt to whatever situation may present itself. "Some days, I care for all staff, and some days, my care is directed to our patients and parents. This is doable because my faith sustains me and because we work as a team in the ASK Clinic. We all work on spiritual, medical, and emotional care. We all support one another, and that helps us deal and cope with our environment." - Rich Kim Stroud: ASK Family Support Manager Kim Stroud's role as ASK Family Support Manager is centered on alleviating practical burdens for families. "I try to talk to everyone while they are in clinic so we can have a sense of what is most important that day," Kim explains. From providing financial assistance to organizing pick-me-up surprises, Kim's support extends beyond the clinic to create a supportive environment for ASK families. ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation offers financial assistance and additional support to families being treated at Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters, UVA Children's Hospital, Carilion Children's, Inova Schar Cancer Institute, and Fredericksburg area families treated at Children's National. Qualified families in Virginia may apply for help paying non-medical (housing, utilities, transportation) bills by filling out our ASK Making Life Better Fund Application. The challenges that come with a childhood cancer diagnosis can look a little different for everyone. "Our team works tirelessly to provide comprehensive support at every step of the journey," Kim emphasizes. By collaborating with hospital social workers and community partners, Kim ensures that families receive tailored assistance based on their unique needs, such as: providing gas and grocery gift cards to help ease the financial burden checking in regularly to offer a kind word or listening ear providing a pick-me-up surprise when your child or their siblings feel down connecting you with community partners for everyday needs, such as a free oil change Holistic Support Beyond Treatment ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation's commitment to family support extends beyond medical treatment. Through the dedication of our ASK Clinic Staff, including Katie Barber, Rich Catlett, and Kim Stroud, we stand with ASK families, offering hope, compassion, and unwavering support. ASK's mission is to make life better for children with cancer. Katie, Rich and Kim are beautiful examples of how to live that mission every day and in every way. If your family is navigating childhood cancer in Virginia, please fill out the ASK Family Enrollment form here so that we can provide the necessary support, community and resources needed throughout your journey.

Tecumseh’s family noticed something wasn’t right when the bright, energetic son and brother they knew became pale and tired. After three nights in the emergency room at VCU, 13-year-old Tecumseh (TK, for short) was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, a common form of leukemia. Though this awful news hit the family hard, he was given a good prognosis and would have a community of support coming their way before they knew it. “We were completely overwhelmed by the diagnosis of leukemia for our sweet boy, and we didn’t know what we needed or even what we should ask for,” says Tecumseh’s mom, Samantha. “Then, this angel named Katie appeared in Clinic and told us that ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation was here to help us navigate this new and foreign journey. It never occurred to us to ask for anything, but whatever we needed – then and now – was given freely.” “ASK knows how to help and they just do it. It requires nothing from me. I don’t even make requests sometimes and there they are, with exactly what we need without any fanfare,” Samantha continues. “Some of these things seem so little and insignificant, and yet when something like this happens, it’s the little things you need.” Among the types of support TK's family received include gas cards and bill assistance to help ease the impact of childhood cancer on their family’s budget. Later on, as TK and his parents prepared for his transition back to the classroom, ASK was there to guide them through the process and make sure he had the resources and accommodations he needed to be successful. “Jon Longenecker [ASK Education Support Navigator] has been incredibly helpful in helping Tecumseh and us in his transition back to school! Tecumseh started back to school in person in January – almost a year after this initial diagnosis – and we could not have done it without Jon’s support,” Samantha recalls. “He helped guide us through the 504 process and was by our side as we met with school administrators. Last year, I had no idea that ASK provided these services and it’s been an incredible resource for us!” Proud of their Native American heritage, Tecumseh’s family has found community in the citizens of the Pamunkey Tribe, who have remained a critical lifeline throughout their childhood cancer journey. We look forward to welcoming TK and his three younger siblings to upcoming ASK events like Summer Camp, where they can continue building community with others who understand what they’ve been through. “Our biggest struggle as the parents of a sick child is making sure everyone in our family feels supported and gets what they need, in spite of cancer and treatment schedules,” Samantha shares. “Having ASK as a resource that is so closely tied to the clinical team but also supporting families through programming and services, is invaluable. Someone is paying attention to the science of diagnosis, but ASK is paying attention to the impact on the family.” “It’s a well-established protocol of three years of chemotherapy, but an intensive six to nine months of aggressive chemo,” Samantha explains. “He’s responding well to treatment, and I continue to be impressed with his resilience, grace and humor. He is still his sweet, kind self, even during the worst of the chemo.”

Lace-up your running shoes because we're gearing up for the 19th Annual ASK 5K & Fun Walk! This event has become a treasured tradition for us at ASK and the entire community, rallying behind families battling childhood cancer. And guess what? Once again, Anthem is leading the charge as our presenting sponsor for the 19th year in a row! Their steadfast commitment to our cause has been the fuel propelling us forward, and we can't thank them enough for their tireless support that keeps us running toward our goal. Get ready to put your best foot forward because this year's 19th Annual ASK 5K & Fun Walk will be an event for the history books! Set for Saturday, May 18th, 2024, at The Diamond, it's a day you won't want to miss. From the camaraderie to the sense of purpose, this event embodies the spirit of a community coming together for a common goal – to make life better for children battling cancer across Virginia. Not yet registered? No worries at all, you can register today at askwalk.org. Can't make it in person? No sweat! We have virtual participation options available, ensuring everyone can participate in the action. Is your company looking for a team-building exercise that also benefits the community? This is your chance to shine through sponsorship or team participation! We will rally together with more than 1,000 participants, most families of children who are going through treatment or who are now into survivorship. A visual representation of the community coming together to celebrate their cancer journey and supporting the more than 300 children who will receive a cancer diagnosis this year. The ASK 5K & Fun Walk isn't just about covering ground; it's a celebration of resilience and strength. Our goal this year? To raise $250,000, and we know with your support, we can crush that target! Every dollar raised goes towards supporting children battling cancer and their families, providing them with the care, resources, and support they need during their journey. The fun kicks off bright and early with a Pre-Race Tailgate at 8:00 am, featuring games, activities, music, and more to get those muscles warmed up for the 3.1-mile run/walk. Psst, this year, we've got something extra sweet – introducing the Kid's Donut Dash at 8:45 am! Watch your little ones dash for delicious treats in this quick sprint. And don't forget, a medal awaits every participant who crosses the finish line. After all that excitement, we'll gather for an awards ceremony at 9:00 am to recognize our top fundraisers, teams, and the ones with the most pep in their step. But wait, there's more! The celebration continues at the Post-Race Festival on the concourse, complete with live music, activities to keep the kiddos entertained, and a Kourageous Kids Victory lap. It's the perfect way to cap off a day. As we reflect on the past 18 years of the ASK 5K & Fun Walk, we're reminded of the incredible journey we've embarked on – a journey powered by love, compassion, and a lot of hustle. We thank Anthem for their unwavering support and our sponsors, participants, volunteers, and everyone who has helped make this event a roaring success year after year. So mark your calendars, rally your troops, and join us on May 18th as we stride, stroll, and celebrate hope. Because with your support, the ASK 5K & Fun Walk isn't just a walk – it's a testament to the power of community, coming together to make a difference one step at a time.

Four-year-old Madelyn, or Maddie, is the 23rd person in the United States to be diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia with the sub-type RAM phenotype. Big words for a sweet little girl fighting a huge battle, but Maddie is resilient! She’s currently in remission following extensive chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant – though, she and her family still have a ways to go on their childhood cancer journey. “Madelyn has fought infections, kidney failure, a bone marrow transplant, and leukemia to be here, but she’s a sassy diva with a big personality and she’s showing all of us how to get through this life-changing event,” laughs Stephanie, Maddie’s mom. “It’s been a grueling process for a little one, and hard to watch our baby go through something so difficult, but we have an amazing support system in ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation.” “We met the folks of ASK almost immediately,” Stephanie remembers. “They found us and explained the financial, psychological, and social support they would provide our family, and answered questions we didn’t even know we had.” When FMLA ended for both Stephanie and her husband, they were left to face the immense financial burden of childhood cancer. ASK stepped in to pay the family’s mortgage and car payment for one month and provided gas gift cards, allowing Maddie’s family to focus on helping her get stronger. “People don’t know what our family goes through on a daily basis. They hear that Maddie is in remission but don’t understand that she is still in treatment and this cancer diagnosis continues to interfere with our normal lives,” Stephanie explains. “But the people at ASK that we see every day in Clinic or when Maddie is in the hospital understand us and know what we need, often before we do. Our constant support system is ASK. They never leave us." - ASK Mom Stephanie ASK remains part of our families' lives forever because a childhood cancer diagnosis changes life forever. Our approach to providing all-around support for families like Madelyn’s goes far beyond their time in treatment; we’re there to help them keep up and transition back to school, connect them with services and resources as they grow, and offer social events to help them feel “normal” for a while with other families who understand what they’ve been through. Maddie will continue her monthly chemo treatments until March 2024, when her parents hope she can finally ring the bell marking the end of treatment and celebrate! For now, she and her brother Riley are thriving, enjoying their new bunny, Poppy, and looking forward to swimming again in the pool next summer. “We’re trying to move through each day and leave the memories of long hospital stays, feeding tubes and intense chemo behind us and focus on a happy future,” Stephanie shares. “It is both a blessing and a curse that this happened to Maddie at such a young age. Her physical scars will heal, but we don’t know what the treatments will do long-term. The worry is hard on our souls, but we know ASK will be with us every step of the way. I don’t know how we would make this journey without them!”

Buckle up and get ready for a joyous ride as we share the heartwarming impact of our tire-iffic Making Life Better Partner, Midas of Richmond, and its owners, Mark and Patty Smith. They're not just changing tires; they're changing lives with their "Tires with a Purpose" campaign, and we can't help but rev our engines with excitement and gratitude. Midas of Richmond has gone above and beyond to support children battling cancer through their Tires with a Purpose campaign. When you choose to roll into Midas for new tires, not only are you treating your car to some serious TLC, but you're also fueling hope for children battling cancer in Central Virginia. Midas chips in $2.50 for every tire sold to ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation – it's like a pit stop for a good cause! Since the campaign’s launch in May of 2023, Mark and Patty’s crew at Midas of Richmond sold a whopping 4,689 tires, bringing in a total of nearly $12,000! Talk about putting the pedal to the metal for a meaningful mission. Mark, you and your team are tireless champions, and we can't thank you enough for your commitment to Making Life Better for these brave children. Now, let's take a pit stop and admire the extra miles Mark and Patty have gone. They are also annual funders of our ASK Summer Camp, which serves nearly 100 children each year, but they’re also greasing the gears for active treatment families in Central Virginia. Free oil changes? That's not just oil – it's liquid love for families navigating the twists and turns of childhood cancer. But wait, there's more in this automotive adventure! Mark and Patty understand that sometimes families need a little extra horsepower during challenging times. When one family hit a speed bump, he didn't just lend a helping hand; he handed over the keys to a loaner vehicle, ensuring they could easily cruise to and from the hospital for their child's treatment. Midas of Richmond, you're not just fixing cars; you're making life better for our families. Your dedication to our cause is like a perfectly tuned engine – powerful, reliable, and full of heart. Your support is like a smooth ride on a freshly paved road, making the journey a little brighter for every family facing childhood cancer. So here's to Midas of Richmond and Mark and Patty Smith – our tireless heroes making the world a better place, one tire at a time! Your commitment to our cause is like a well-oiled machine, and we are so grateful to have you steering the way toward a brighter future for children and their families battling cancer in your community. Learn more about ASK's #MakingLifeBetter Campaign and how you can become a community partner HERE! For more information, please contact Rachael Schrinel, Director of Philanthropy, at rschrinel@askccf.org.

ASK Kid Nikolas was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at the age of nine and spent five challenging months in the hospital, enduring intensive chemotherapy. Despite the isolation from friends and the uncertainty that shadowed his days, he found a beacon of support in Amy Fender, ASK Education Support Navigator. She helped him navigate the complexities of hospital life, offering educational materials and companionship during his treatment, ensuring he didn't lose hope or fall behind in his studies. Recently, Nikolas and Amy Fender had the opportunity to share Nikolas's inspiring story with WDBJ7 Morning and Noon Anchor Kimberly McBroom, where Nikolas recounted his battle with cancer and the crucial role Amy Fender played in his education and emotional well-being. Kimberly McBroom at WDBJ7 Roanoke has the story: To see the very precocious nine-year-old Nikolas Pakkidis, you’d never know that he’s already fought the battle of his life. “I wouldn’t eat. I wouldn’t drink. I wouldn’t do anything. I was nauseous all the time, and it got to the point where they had to take me to the emergency room,” says Nikolas. “He was much more weak, not very talkative, and I kind of just wanted them to see my face, know that I was there when it was time to transition back to school,” says ASK Education Support Navigator, Amy Fender. Fender helped Nikolas keep up with his schoolwork, while he was in the hospital. Now, Nikolas is back to school one day a week. “The normalcy is so important, like with Nicholas, he only goes once a week. But he can build up. He gets to see his friends. He can kind of get used to the idea of going back, and go back at his own pace,” says Fender. Through his words, Nikolas's courage and resilience shone brightly throughout the interview, touching viewers' hearts across the region. As his story inspires hope and awareness, Nikolas and his family remain dedicated advocates for pediatric cancer patients and survivors, exemplifying the power of community and compassion in overcoming life's greatest challenges. Want to learn more about ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation and how you can help support children like Nikolas and their families battling cancer across the Commonwealth? Get Involved today!

Ada is an inquisitive, spunky three-year-old who loves blue popsicles, singing and playing on her playset with her loving parents, Savanna and Austin. To know Ada is to love her. Her bright personality will capture your heart and her humor will keep you on your toes. She may look and act like your typical toddler, but Ada has faced a lot more than most children her age: She is currently fighting a bilateral optic pathway glioma, a type of brain tumor that has caused her to lose much of her vision. Even so, Ada goes into each day living her life to the fullest! “Since about nine months old, we noticed that Ada’s eyes were moving from side to side really fast, which is called nystagmus. We were reassured, and it was being monitored,” Savanna explains. “But when her right eye started to turn inward, I became alarmed and we were referred to VCU Pediatric Ophthalmology. I honestly thought we would get a prescription for glasses and she would have to wear an eye patch to correct the lazy eye, but we left that appointment in shock and terrified.” An MRI later revealed an extensive bilateral optic pathway brain tumor, and their worst nightmare was confirmed. Many follow-ups, testing and specialty appointments followed, where they learned that treatment would involve 60 weeks of chemotherapy. “In spite of the chaos of childhood cancer, our Clinic visits are filled with comfort and love,” Savanna shares. “The first time we were in Clinic was one of the hardest and scariest days of our lives, but almost immediately, the entire staff helped to calm our fears and make us feel at home. I will never forget that day. It was 4 days before Christmas 2022, and in walks Miss Katie, ASK’s Child Life Specialist, with Bat Girl and Christmas presents for Ada. Receiving this gesture within minutes of us being placed in our infusion room made all the difference in our world, and gently eased Ada into her first day of chemotherapy. Ada now runs into Clinic, so excited to see and play with everyone. The entire staff is so sweet and completely spoils our precious girl. Not only do they support Ada, but they support us as parents as well. They work so hard to make each child feel special and make the hard days seem easier.” Savanna is a Labor and Delivery nurse at VCU CMH in South Hill and an adjunct nursing instructor for SVCC. Austin works in both Forestry and Farming. They have both continued to work full-time during Ada’s treatment, which has been a lot to navigate through while putting their daughter’s healthcare first. Driving from their home in Keysville, Virginia, Ada and her family travel more than an hour each way to get to treatment at the ASK Oncology/Hematology Clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. The financial burden that comes with a childhood cancer diagnosis can be devastating, but thanks to ASK’s community of support, Ada’s family doesn’t have to face it alone. “We are so grateful to ASK for the gas, gift, and grocery cards we have received to help mitigate the costs such as of traveling to the clinic and purchasing a safety vest for Ada to wear during chemotherapy." - ASK mom Savanna "The snacks, popsicles and treasure box full of toys that ASK provides are always there to lift her spirits and keep her busy during long chemotherapy days. They continue to show us so much love and support in so many ways.” Savanna continues. Miss Katie also referred the family to Roc Solid Foundation, who donated and built Ada her very own playset last autumn. Since Ada’s diagnosis, she’s been able to attend ASK’s Night at The Diamond, the ASK 5k & Fun Walk, and ASK’s Kourageous Kids Party – experiences this family says they are so thankful for and will forever hold close to their hearts. Ada’s doctors had a plan for her to complete her chemotherapy this month, February 2024. However, recent MRI findings have changed her course and extended her chemotherapy regimen for an additional 2 years. While they still have a long road ahead of them, Ada and her family know they will have a community of support by their side. “God, our family, friends, community and all the teams at VCU CHoR have been with us every step of the way. And if anyone can fight brain cancer with a smile on her face, it’s our Ada,” Savanna reflects. “She has inspired so many people with her courage, strength, and resilience and I have no doubt that she will continue to move mountains until she finally rings that bell. ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation has greatly impacted our lives and given us so much joy to look forward to during some of our darkest days. We could never thank them enough for being one of the constants that has kept us grounded during Ada’s adventure.”

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation advocates gathered at the General Assembly of Virginia for a day full of legislator meetings to emphasize the transformative impact of the state-funded Education Navigator Program, which has proven to be a beacon of hope and assistance for children and their families facing the challenges of childhood cancer and late effects of treatment. In attendance were ASK parents like Melissa Healey, ASK Mom of Tallulah, a 4-year-old battling B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, and ASK survivors like Grace Black, who was diagnosed with cancer at the age of five. They shared their unique stories of battling cancer and how ASK's Education Navigator Program has made an impact on their child's life and personal journey with cancer. Tracy Sears at CBS6 Richmond has the story: Grace Black was five years old when she was first diagnosed with cancer. Today, at 16 and cancer-free, she’s speaking with Virginia lawmakers about the long-term effects of her illness that can make learning challenging. She says educational support has played a big role in helping her navigate big learning hurdles. “There’s definitely discouragement, like why can’t I learn like everyone else?” Grace said. “I lost 96% of my visual memory so it makes it very hard to spell and it makes my brain work ten times harder in order to do the same schoolwork that my classmates are doing, and my peers are doing.” Grace was among 40 advocates with ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation who met with Virginia’s state delegates and senators on Wednesday, thanking them for their support of children and adolescents who are battling cancer or are survivors… Children like 4-year-old Tallulah, who now has an Education Support Navigator helping her adjust to preschool while undergoing treatment for B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Tallulah’s mother, Melissa Heatley, says the support provided by ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation has given her family peace of mind. “The relationship that we’ve forged and the friendships, they mean everything to us,” Heatley said. Heatley also met with lawmakers Wednesday morning to encourage more funding to assist families. While there is one education navigator in all five major cancer treatment centers across the state, ASK is hoping the program will grow to include more education specialists. With over 500 children receiving education assistance in its first year, ASK aims to support even more children in the coming years through its Education Navigator Program. The goal is to provide support to the 6-7 children diagnosed with cancer in Virginia each week. As we reflect on this past year's accomplishments, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting children with cancer and those in survivorship. ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that every child and adolescent facing cancer receives the education and assistance they need to thrive beyond their battle with cancer. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by childhood cancer in Virginia. You can watch the full segment by Tracy Sears on CBS6 here.

Being a parent or caregiver brings joy and purpose to many. This statement couldn't be more accurate for Robbie Westermann, a proud father of three. The role of being a dad sparked his deep dedication to improving the lives of children navigating challenging circumstances and drew him to the mission of ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation. As the new Board President of ASK, Westermann effortlessly blends the nurturing qualities honed through parenting into his leadership style. “Listening well and being open to different ideas are not just skills from being a parent; they are essential to shaping ASK's goals,” says Robbie. To him, leading a nonprofit is like being the conductor of a family orchestra, where every voice plays a part in creating something beautiful together. Robbie's dedication to creating an inclusive environment where every voice is valued harmonizes perfectly with ASK's vision for a more impactful and inclusive future. When questioned about his vision for ASK's evolution amid the ongoing statewide expansion, he emphasized the importance of bringing on board members from different regions of Virginia. "This strategy is imperative to garner diverse perspectives, enabling ASK to extend its reach even further with a broader scope and a more substantial foundation of funds and talent," he shares. "We are grateful for Robbie's steady and impactful leadership as we navigate this growth,” says Amy Godkin, ASK Executive Director. Robbie has already hit the ground running and has made it very clear that during his term as Board President, he will “put the organization in the strongest place for staff and funding to keep this state model going while preserving our central Virginia roots” and that “we are in the right spot to take ASK to the next level in making life the very best for our children and their families.” Robbie has been a critical member of our Board of Directors since 2017, and like many members of our committee, he is no stranger to ASK as he has been a supporter and cheerleader for our ASK children and families for over a decade. As he reflected on his most memorable moment of 2023 at the Kourageous Kids Party, where fourteen children and their families were recognized for their bravery and resilience, he couldn’t help but be inspired and proud of the great work that ASK does to serve its families. When Robbie isn't wearing his Super Dad hat and trying to make life better for children with cancer, he works as an Attorney and Shareholder at Hirschler Fleischer, P.C. Throughout his time at Hirschler Fleischer, he has focused on streamlining all business areas to maximize impact, a skill he has put in to practice as the Board Chair since taking on this role in July 2023. Thanks for all you do, Robbie!

Hebelin carries herself with wisdom well beyond her years, despite the fact that she’s just 14 years old. Originally from Venezuela, Hebelin is a bright, young teen who enjoys going to school (especially art class!) and spending time with her loving family. But behind her poised presence and encouraging smile is an awe-inspiring story to tell: a lifelong battle with Sickle Cell Anemia, and a family’s incredible journey across continents to save their daughter. Their story began on Hebelin’s first birthday when she received her official diagnosis of Sickle Cell Anemia, a genetic blood disorder. The year ahead involved a dozen hospitalizations, blood transfusions, gallbladder and appendix surgery, and various other treatments to try and manage Hebelin’s pain. As hard as the doctors tried, nothing worked. Hebelin’s father, Heberto, remembers the countless sleepless nights he and his family endured throughout that year – but also, the miracles. “She developed pneumonia during an anemia crisis and fell unconscious,” Heberto recalls. “The doctors didn’t understand what was happening to her, so we just prayed. We prayed, and we received a miracle that night.” “Another time, Hebelin was in the hospital on oxygen, and the electricity was turned off,” remembers Heberto. “I carried my baby to my car and drove from hospital to hospital looking for power so that my baby would live.” As they were about to give up hope, they finally found a hospital with power and narrowly saved Hebelin’s life. It was then that Heberto and Lisseth knew the key to their baby’s survival was to leave their lives in Venezuela and immigrate to the United States. Fast forward, Hebelin is now in eighth grade and thriving socially, academically, and medically! Thanks in part, her parents say, to the support they’ve received from ASK. “ASK has loved our family and thoroughly changed our lives. Life has been really hard for our daughter, but ASK’s education support navigator has helped Hebelin get settled into a safe and supportive environment where she can learn a new language and be a teenager. ASK has provided financial support and emotional support through family events. We came to the U.S. with God’s help, and the people at ASK have been our angels on this journey!” - ASK dad Heberto Hebelin’s favorite ASK events include the Holiday Party, the Richmond Zoo trip, Bingo night, and weekly after-school socials where she practices her English and makes new friends. “There are so many good things about ASK,” Hebelin beams. “Words cannot describe what ASK has done for our family. Donors can see with their own eyes the kids like me who are happy even though we’re in clinic and receiving treatments. That’s because of ASK.” “We live every day to the maximum and do everything together as a family,” Heberto continues. “Sickle Cell is a sickness that many people don’t know about, so it’s important to raise awareness of the disease and how it affects our children. We went to several countries to find treatments for our daughter, and we are so grateful that her pain can be managed now. We look forward to a day when our daughter can be free of this disease.”

In many ways, Shyann is your typical shy and curious 10-year-old girl. She likes to play outside with her friends, draw, watch TV, learn new things in school and be the best big sister to her younger brother. In other ways, Shyann is different from most of her peers and the challenges they face; earlier this year, she was diagnosed with stage 4 Rhabdomyosarcoma and is currently fighting for her life. Shyann’s mom, Elizabeth, first noticed something was wrong when Shyann started looking pale and was losing her appetite. Elizabeth’s worries grew after a phone call from Shyann’s school principal, who was concerned about her fatigue. Instead of running around with her classmates as she normally would, Shyann favored the bench on the sidelines. Elizabeth and Shyann’s stepdad, Nicholas, immediately rushed her to the hospital and urged doctors to do whatever they could to explain what was happening to their daughter. Tests soon confirmed their worst fears: there was a tumor on Shyann’s pelvis that had merged with her spine. She received her official diagnosis a week later, and ASK has been by the family’s side ever since. We were overjoyed to see Shyann’s loving parents and brother go all in when it came to helping her feel less alone! “Our whole family shaved their head in support of Shyann,” Elizabeth laughs. “This is just the beginning of our journey, and we have a long road ahead of us, so we wanted her to know that we’re all in this together.” These days, Shyann’s life revolves around the ASK Hematology/Oncology Clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU for chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. She has spent months in and out of the hospital, endured rare, life-threatening side effects from radiation, and braved dozens of blood transfusions. Even so, Shyann and her family stay resilient and headstrong with their community of support with them at every step. “This diagnosis and treatment plan is so scary for all of us and so stressful. ASK’s support team has been with us since Shyann’s diagnosis, and we look forward to participating in the family events and support groups once Shyann is able,” Elizabeth continues. “ASK has been incredibly helpful with gift cards for groceries and gas. We live in Dinwiddie, so we travel a good distance to get to Clinic. We also have only one car, so it needs to remain dependable. It’s so comforting to know that someone will have our backs throughout this process, in big and small ways.” - ASK mom Elizabeth Through the generosity of ASK’s donors, Shyann and her family will continue to receive financial assistance, access to mental health counseling, opportunities for community and connection as Shyann is able, as well as post-treatment educational programs and services to help her thrive in school and life. “If everything goes well, Shyann will complete treatment in 18 months,” Elizabeth explains. “Childhood cancer is unforgiving, and it comes on so fast. The worst part of Shyann’s disease is that you don’t know that you have it until it’s stage 4. We are so blessed to have ASK to help us navigate this new and confusing world of clinics and hospitals and treatments and remain our advocates!”