Share and Care

We went on the Share and Care retreat this weekend. It was organized by Mollie's hem/onc clinic. The idea was for some of the hem/onc families and staff to get to know each other better, to let the kids be kids, and to give the parents a chance to have some kid-free time. It was great!

Kym, the fabulous Child Life director, had all sorts of wonderful things organized. There was a magic show, campfire, arts and crafts, mini-golf, a dance, complete with djs, disco balls, and stage fog, and a movie. The retreat was at the same place where the summer camp is held, so we got to sleep in the cabins, eat in the dining hall, etc. Mollie is really excited to go to camp this summer!

The parents had several discussion sessions focused on dealing with pediatric cancer. Then the guys went and did a ropes course and the women got massages, facials, and manicures. All without kids. Very nice.

Mollie had a great time. She made friends with Molly's sister who's about the same age. Mollie was much more outgoing than I've ever seen her. She volunteered to go up on 'stage' during Magic Mike's show. She held a real, live dove and helped him with some tricks. Then she was giggling and LOVING the rest of his show. And the dance. Mollie was all decked out in a crown, fancy dress, and butterfly wings. Every other person was wearing jeans and their camp shirt, but not Mollie. She was dressed to impress! Mollie idolizes the child life specialists and interns, and was so happy when they ooohed and aaaahed over her outfit.

Lucy had a nice time too. Everyone wanted to hold her and she got a LOT of attention. The best part was getting to know some of the other families better. We see these people every week or two in clinic, but we don't always see the siblings and spouses, and we don't know much about their lives outside of clinic.

Somehow, I don't have very many pictures.... but trust me, it was fun.