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I still remember the first time I met Heather, Evelyn’s mom. Her energy, her determination, and the love she carries for her daughter were unforgettable. It’s the reason I chose the Team Evelyn Foundation as the charity my Cancer Collection supports — 10% of every purchase goes directly to their incredible work.
Rather than me telling it, I'd love for you to hear Evelyn's story and the Foundation's mission in Heather's own words.
Evelyn's Story
Evelyn was our bright, freckle-faced, strawberry-haired girl who loved celebrating life in all its little moments. At age 10, she was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma, an aggressive childhood cancer. Sadly, after 18 months of treatment, Evelyn passed away in February of 2020 at just 11 years old. She faced her treatment with extraordinary courage, joy, and kindness, teaching all of us the power of hope even in the hardest times. We miss her every single day. And yet, in the middle of that missing, we also see how her love continues to move through the world through all of you, and through the work we are so proud to do in her name.The Team Evelyn Foundation was created to honor Evelyn's life and legacy by improving the lives of children and families navigating childhood cancer. Their mission is to close the gaps in care, especially in mental health and family support, while also funding vital equipment and programs that make hospital experiences less frightening and easier for kids.
The Challenges Families Face
As Heather shared, "A childhood cancer diagnosis turns a family's life upside down. Beyond the obvious medical challenges, families face isolation, financial strain, and emotional exhaustion. Parents must make impossible decisions while balancing hospital stays, work, and caring for other children. Children often endure invasive treatments far from home, missing school, friends, and a sense of normalcy."
This is where the Foundation steps in — helping bridge the gaps with:
- Funding Child Life programs to help kids cope with treatment
- Supporting mental health resources for patients and siblings
- Advocating for equipment that makes procedures safer and less traumatic
Their work is about more than treatment — it's about making sure families feel seen, supported, and less alone.
How You Can Help
Donations are essential, but Heather also reminded me there are so many ways to show support:
- Share Evelyn's story and the Foundation's mission on social media — you can find them at @teamevelynfoundation
- Partner with the Foundation through your business with fundraising or sponsorships
- Wear gold in September for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
- And most importantly, show up for families in your community with kindness and understanding
Right now, the Foundation is just $14,000 away from reaching their $250,000 commitment to support childhood cancer patients receiving radiation at the Alberta Children's Hospital. Every donation helps bring them closer to that goal.
And if you'd like to support in another way, I created my Cancer Collection — meaningful Morse Code pieces designed with strength and resilience in mind. With each piece purchased, 10% goes directly to the Team Evelyn Foundation.
