Childhood cancer doesn’t just impact the young patients; it profoundly disrupts the lives of their entire families. As someone who has witnessed this firsthand, I understand the immense challenges these families face. My name is Catherine Barr, and my sister, Sarah, was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma when she was just 12. For seven and a half years, our family navigated the complexities of cancer treatment, a journey made a little lighter thanks to organizations like Rally Foundation.
Young Sarah (right) and Catherine (left) on Easter years before Sarah’s cancer diagnosis.
Sarah, even before her diagnosis, was a gentle, intelligent, and deeply faithful young woman with dreams of a medical career. Cancer didn’t diminish her spirit; it highlighted her incredible resilience and selflessness. She remained a source of joy and inspiration for our family throughout her battle and continues to be so even after her passing in 2016.
Catherine giving Sarah a piggyback ride. Photo by Katherine Birkbeck Photography
My experience as Sarah’s sister has driven me to support Rally Foundation. Currently finishing my degree at Georgia College & State University, I chose to collaborate with Rally for my senior capstone project. It’s an opportunity to give back to an organization that was a pillar of support for my family during Sarah’s cancer journey. Rally’s “Journey to the Bell” campaign, which I am actively involved in, embodies the hope and support they provide to families like mine.
From the moment of diagnosis, families enter a world of hospital visits, treatments, and uncertainty. Normal routines vanish, replaced by long hospital stays that can last for weeks or months. Families are often separated, facing emotional and financial strain, all while trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos.
Sarah in the hospital after her initial biopsy.
The ultimate goal for every family battling childhood cancer is to reach the symbolic “bell-ringing” ceremony, signifying the end of treatment and the hope for a cancer-free future. Rally Foundation understands this journey and offers comprehensive support to families every step of the way.
One crucial aspect of this support is the Rally Good Meal program. This initiative directly addresses a fundamental need for families in hospitals: access to nutritious and comforting meals. The Rally Good Meal program provides meal deliveries to children’s hospitals, ensuring that families have one less burden to worry about during incredibly stressful times. Each delivery, providing around 60 meals, costs approximately $500 and makes a significant difference in the lives of these families, offering sustenance and a moment of care amidst their challenging journey. These meals are more than just food; they are a symbol of community support and practical help for families focused on caring for their child.
