CHARLOTTE, N.Y. — Nearly 80 families gathered at the Roger Robach Community Center for the Childhood Cancer Association holiday party. The event offered support and festive cheer for local kids living with life-threatening illnesses.
Jennilee Bisconte attended with her daughter Eleanor, who has a chronic blood disorder. “Eleanor is our cure kid,” Bisconte said. “We found out when she was about a year old.”
Bisconte said CURE has supported them every step of the way, providing fun times with holiday parties like this. Eleanor, 12, is one of the kids benefiting from CURE’s support. “It’s amazing everyone that’s here tonight is just very special,” Eleanor said. “And we care so much about them and helping people so much.”
The party featured face painting, airbrushed tattoos, and various stations where kids and families could receive presents. Mr. and Mrs. Claus, along with the Grinch, added to the festive atmosphere.
Kaitlyn Barthelmes attended with her children, Jackson and Emerson. She lost her six-year-old daughter Madison to cancer in 2023 but continues to support other families. “My daughter had to stay in the hospital the whole time,” Barthelmes said. “I would be in the hospital for 24 hours with her and my husband would be home with my son.”
CURE supported Barthelmes by providing gift cards for food and gas during her daughter’s treatment.
Leah Dickerson, who is battling a blood disorder, also enjoyed the festivities with her family. “This is a great time and a nice holiday to come to today,” Leah said.
Her family appreciated the opportunity to connect with others and enjoy the holiday spirit. “It’s good to share with her and she’ll have memories,” Leah’s grandmother said. “We all have memories and hope to have many more.”
The holiday party brought joy and support to families facing challenging times, offering a chance to create cherished memories.
Holly Dutcher the executive director at C.U.R.E. says it takes a village to raise a child and it takes an even bigger village to raise a sick kiddo. CURE’S goal is to do everything they can to wrap families in love and make memories.
“We just care so deeply for them and we want to do everything we can do make the holidays magical for them,” Dutcher said.
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