Imagine if your child's holiday wishes could not be met due to the financial strain of medical treatment. Initiated in 2005, Children's Cancer Network's "Holiday Surprises Program" assists families fulfill their children's winter holiday wishes while undergoing treatment for cancer.

The families are identified by the local pediatric hematology/oncology practices from Phoenix Children's Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, and Cardon Children's Medical Center. Each family provides input as to their needs and wishes for the holiday season. Then, Children's Cancer Network volunteers "shop 'til they drop" for each family.

The fun continues at the annual wrapping party where shoppers and volunteers gather for an afternoon of hot chocolate, wrapping and camaraderie as we prepare all the gifts to be delivered to the families. For each family, Children's Cancer Network provides toys, clothing, and basic household items, as well as gas and food cards.

Often, through the gracious giving of our sponsors and supporters, we are able to grant special wishes that have included everything from additional beds so family members did not have to sleep on the floor, grass for the backyard so the children could play with their puppy, and of course, the newest video games, bikes, and dolls that help children live their childhood dreams!

Over the past 3 years, there has been an increasing demand for this program. Children's Cancer Network adopted 5 families in 2005, 11 families in 2006, 13 families in 2007, and 16 families in 2008. It is our hope to continue to reach additional families in need each year in order that they feel the warmth and love of sharing while dealing with the uncertainties of childhood cancer.