In this episode, dragonfly parents, Stacy and Adam, reflect on the impact cancer and The Dragonfly Foundation have had on their family after their young daughter Kylie was diagnosed. They also share stories of the support they received from the community, their children’s school, and others.
Dragonfly has been with them from the beginning, starting with a bag of essentials they received at the hospital. Other programs and support services Dragonfly offers continue to play a vital in helping the family along their journey.
Dragonfly’s patient/family events have helped to distract the family. Thanks to the generosity of donors like Cincinnati Bell, the family was able to attend a Garth Brooks concert (Kylie’s first!) and a Cyclones game, among others. Having access to Dragonfly’s suite at a local arena was especially important during times when Kylie was immune compromised. To donate tickets/suites to give to patients/families, please contact The Dragonfly Foundation.
Another event that brought them joy was when their children participated in Sycamore High School’s Fashion For The Cure, a annual fundraiser for The Dragonfly Foundation in Cincinnati, OH. They were amazed at the event
For them, spending time doing things together as a family was huge. Dragonfly’s Landing is a great place for them to get together, to relax and to connect with other families sharing similar experiences.
The family loves being a part of the Dragonfly family. They also appreciate the emotional support they receive from family, friends and associates. Texting or calls meant a lot to them, especially during the first year of treatment when they had extended hospital stays and multiple appointments and crises.
Whether at home, the hospital or the landing, the family spent a lot of time together playing with Legos. It kept them busy and helped pass the time. They credit the toy with providing a lot of happiness. This has lead them to create an annual Lego Drive for Dragonfly!
Everyone at their children’s school was incredibly supportive. One of the family’s fondest memories is when the students, teachers and event the principal lined the halls to welcome Kylie’s return to school after an extended absence during treatment.
Treatment, surgeries, testing and maintenance visits cause a lot of stress, so Dragonfly is a welcome lifeline of support for not only the patient, but siblings/offspring and parents/caregivers.
Dragonfly Effect Podcast
Dragonfly is grateful to iHeart Radio host, Scott Sloan, for recording the introduction/closing of the podcast. The executive producer of Dragonfly’s podcast is Joe Strecker.
The Dragonfly Foundation(R), a 501c3 nonprofit, helps pediatric cancer patients and their families find strength, courage, and joy. We do this by providing ongoing support, relevant materials, and caring, nurturing and transformative experiences.
To donate and to learn more about Dragonfly, please visit Dragonfly.org or text WINGS to 71777.
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