Cancer survivor Lydia Epping, 24, knows what it’s like to be in the hospital over the holiday season.
“I was diagnosed at age 7 with Wilms tumor, a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys. I had to go through numerous chemotherapy and radiation treatments not to mention multiple surgeries over the years,” said Epping. “It’s tough to be in the hospital for the holidays but hearing about community support makes such a difference.”
To make giving as easy as possible, Cincinnati Children’s is hosting a drop-off donation event for the public at the medical center. People can simply drive to the hospital’s main circle where they will be greeted by an employee ready to receive the donation from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
“We understand everyone is busy this time of year, so we want to make the process as convenient as possible for donors. People who come won’t even have to park, because our staff will come right to their car to collect the donations.” said Anna Kuertz, Donor Relations Coordinator at Cincinnati Children’s.
Any gifts received by December 15 will be used at the annual Jingle Bell Junction celebration at Cincinnati Children’s. The event is a way for parents to select presents for their children who are inpatients during the holidays.
If you are not able to make the drop-off event, you can always make a donation another time. Contact Anna Kuertz at anna.kuertz@cchmc.org or 513-636-8760.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Items recommended include new books, toys, crafts and games. Gift cards are an easy way to help us fulfill wish list needs year-round. Please remember:
- All toys must be new and in their original packaging.
- Stuffed animals must come directly from the manufacturer.
- Hand-made items, like greeting cards, cannot be accepted.
- Cincinnati Children’s is a latex-free environment.
- No food items can be accepted.
Please see the Holiday Wish List for information about needed items and safety guidelines.