Gadgets for Kids with Cancer

We have given personal DVD players (and this year, an iPad) to help families through the grueling, sometimes painful treatments and procedures that are part of cancer treatment. The DVD players are granted to oncology patients from infants to teens whose families can not afford them. DVD players allow kids to be distracted and transported during long or scary treatments, not to mention the long commutes from suburban or rural areas to the hospital campus on Chicago’s north side.

In 2009, we gave the Child Life staff of the oncology department at Children's Memorial Hospital ten DVD players and age-appropriate DVDs. Here is a thank you we received from Gina, a CMH Social Worker:

Dear Sheila and Jeremy:

I wanted to share a story about Donna's Good Things and the impact your daughter continues to make. I was contacted by Julie in Child Life shortly after you brought DVD players to the hospital. A few days later, myself, my intern and the medical team were discussing ways to decrease anxiety for a brain tumor patient about to start his radiation treatments. Someone suggested watching movies, but commented that the family didn't have (nor could afford) a portable DVD player. Problem solved! Can I just say that this boy watched movies on his two hour drive to radiation as well as in the waiting room. Such a wonderful gift to honor a truly special girl. I'm sure this isn't the first story about the ways Donna impacted those she knew and those she didn't. And it certainly won't be the last. Know that we all continue to think of Donna and your family.

Hope you enjoy some sunshine,

Gina B., Social Worker

In 2010, we gave our first iPad to the Child Life staff of the Oncology Department at Children's Memorial. The iPad has been used for patient education about cancer and bodies, and as a tool for distraction during painful, uncomfortable, or anxious moments. Last year's donation was such a success that we've given three more. On Donna's birthday, we delivered three new iPads: now there is one for each Child Life therapist to have their own to use with the kids, and one dedicated to the play room. Child Life staff have also received specialized training to use age appropriate apps with the kids to help them better understand their diagnosis and treatment. With useful new apps being developed all the time, we hope this gift will continue to provide some joyful opportunities.