Cancer
treatment can be isolating for the children with cancer
so we came up with a solution…
links!
is a program of the Childhood Cancer Lifeline that gives
laptop packages to recently diagnosed school-aged children
so they can stay connected to school, family and friends.
The
packages:
We wrap them up like a present and hand deliver them
to the children that need them.
Each
package includes a new laptop, a bag to carry it in,
a wireless mouse, age appropriate software, a one year
Norton Anti-virus software subscription, and a two year
warranty complete with a one-time screen replacement.
The
successes:
We know this program is everything we wanted it to be,
and more, because we continue to receive letters of
gratitude from parents, patients and the social workers
that work with children.
“Lifeline, this laptop hasn't just improved my life, it changed my whole world!"
Laptop Package Recipient, age 12
“I
love my new laptop. It is so light. I miss a lot of
school so I can now Skype to class from anywhere –
even clinic.”
Laptop Package Recipient, age 6
“I am greatly thankful for the generous gift
of a laptop. In the short time I've had it, it's helped
me keep up with school after missing many days due to
treatment and I can't say how great the Skyping capabilities
are with the web cam!! “
Laptop Package Recipient, age 16
“The
benefits of Childhood Cancer Lifeline’s Links!
program cannot be overstated. Treatment protocols for
pediatric cancers are typically long and intense. Many
of our patients remain on treatment for two years or
more and endure hospital admissions that last weeks
or months. Long hospital stays can be both isolating
and boring; the laptops provided to our patients by
Links! help them occupy their time and keep them connected
with family and friends. This program has truly been
a godsend to our patients and their families.”
Pediatric Resource Program Manager
Additionally each spring the links! program awards each young adult who is a survivor of childhood
cancer a new laptop upon graduation from high school.
The laptop is a vital tool in furthering their education
and fostering independence.
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