Friends of Kids with Cancer is devoted to enriching the daily lives of children diagnosed with cancer and blood-related diseases by offering programs to help families think, feel, and smile.
Our mission is to be an advocate for these special kids and provide them and their families with the educational, emotional, and recreational support needed as a result of the long hours of chemotherapy, illness, and isolation.
314.275.7440 • friendsofkids.org 16 Sunnen Drive Suite 161 • St. Louis, MO • 63143
Friends of Kids with Cancer
@Friends_of_Kids
Back to School Bash Fills Backpacks for Hundreds of Kids in Preparation for the School Year
On a Saturday in late July, over 700 patients, parents, and siblings ignited their imaginations inside The Magic House at this year’s BackTo-School Bash.
Families enjoyed private use of the museum, thanks to a grant designated by The Magic House. During their after-hours visit, families filled bags of school supplies, ate snacks, enjoyed some well-needed family play time, and took home a gift card to accommodate the varying needs of each child’s school supply list.
Smiling, energetic kids were seen moving around having fun while parents followed or relaxed. Kids of all ages attended from those entering Kindergarten to their senior year of high school.
Over 15,000 school supply items were distributed to grateful families who filled bags of items for every school-aged child.
A special thank you to Hart of the City Photo Booth, The Magic House, Young Friends of Kids with Cancer, and all the volunteers who made this event possible.
OVER 15,000 SCHOOL SUPPLY ITEMS DISTRIBUTED
$20,000
Families Gather for a Fun Fall Night at Grant's Farm
The Friends of Kids with Cancer Fall Festival kicked off the spooky season with over 900 patients, parents, and siblings at this private event at Grant’s Farm. Guests enjoyed a dance party, face painting, photo booth, candy and toy give-aways, and big toy duck pull.
Many special guests took photos with families and danced to tunes spun by DJ Shawn, like Ghostbusters, Star Wars characters, princesses, superheroes, and wizards.
Grant’s Farm served up a great dinner, as well as park favorites, like goat feeding, carousel rides, animal viewings, Clydesdale photos, and spooky tram rides.
A special thank you to the 501st Legion Star Wars characters, Dream Time Princess Events, Hart of the City Photo Booth, DJ Shawn of Eclipse DJs STL, Fancy Faces STL, AWS Balloons, and The Greater St. Louis Ghostbusters.
Find more photos of our events at friendsofkids.smugmug.com
$76,000 in Scholarships Awarded to 14 Patients
Friends of Kids with Cancer is proud to continue empowering young people through education. As custodians of three unique scholarships, the organization has awarded a total of $76,000 to 14 incredible teens in treatment and survivorship for the 2025–2026 academic year. These scholarships, created in memory of three remarkable individuals, help pediatric cancer patients take their next steps toward education and independence.
The Tom “The Tutor” Mulvihill Scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and recent graduates as they move confidently into their next chapter of life.
The Bobby Orf #17 Scholarship honors the strength, courage, and determination that defined Bobby’s
life, recognizing applicants who embody those same inspiring traits.
The Mackenzie’s Scholarship, created in memory of Mackenzie Woelbling, is awarded to a student who exemplifies her perseverance and dedication to education.
Friends of Kids with Cancer congratulates these new freshmen and celebrates their continued success. We are honored to help carry forward the legacies of Tom, Bobby, and Mackenzie. Their spirit continues to inspire bright futures for the next generation.
Sweet Dreams: New Program Launched to Support the Comfort of Hospitalized Children
Friends of Kids with Cancer brings joy to families throughout their pediatric cancer journey with thoughtful gifts, snacks, meals, celebrations, and engaging activities to help children stay busy and uplifted while in the hospital.
As part of daily care, hospitals change each child’s bedding with sterilized linens to ensure cleanliness and safety. To add an extra layer of comfort and cheer, Friends of Kids with Cancer is proud to introduce the Sweet Dreams program, a new initiative that provides fun, friendly pillowcases to pediatric patients during bed linen changes each day.
The Sweet Dreams program helps transform sterile hospital rooms into spaces that feel more like a child’s own bedroom. Featuring beloved characters, vibrant colors, and cozy fabrics, these pillowcases help create a warm, emotionally supportive environment while maintaining necessary medical hygiene standards. Satin pillowcases are also available for the comfort of patients who may have loss of hair and tenderness from treatment.
For bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients who are in extended isolation, pajamas, eye masks,
and other unique comfort items are provided and tailored to each patient's needs.
Friends of Kids with Cancer welcomes donations of new, unused pillowcases in their original packaging. To support the Sweet Dreams program, you can purchase items directly from the Sweet Dreams wish list on Amazon or make a donation.
Learn more at friendsofkids.com/sweetdreams
“When my son was hospitalized, all he wanted to do was go home. These pillowcases make it feel like home. My son got excited picking out a pillowcase that was soft and colorful and something he got to choose.
“Afterwards, we kept all the pillowcases, which marked just how long he was there—28 days. It may seem small, but the pillowcases turned out to mean so much in the day-to-day. I still have the pillowcases, and I want to make a quilt out of them.”
—Patient Mom
Supporting Students Through Cancer Treatment from Early Classrooms to University
As a part of our educational support programs, Friends of Kids refers patients to receive educational testing during cancer treatment and after, at no cost to the family. One provider of this type of testing is Dr. Jim Russell, who has supported children from early classrooms to medical school for over 19 years.
Sometimes a child can experience “chemo brain” or “chemo fog” after receiving chemotherapy treatment. When this happens, Dr. Russell works closely with the hospital to develop educational plans for students and offers oneon-one guidance for success.
Study skills sessions help students effectively read textbooks, take classroom notes, organize and schedule academics, and learn how to create study guides.
One patient who is now a college student told Dr. Russell that he taught him a way to create study guides that the patient had never learned before. And, as a new teacher, the patient is going to use the techniques he learned from Dr. Russell in his classroom.
Dr. Russell's educational testing provides a baseline to see where the patient is performing cognitively, emotionally, and socially during
and after treatment. The testing sessions are spread out over days, to weeks, to accommodate the patient’s mental energy.
“Three of the most important accommodations that can level the playing field for those experiencing ‘chemo brain’,” Dr. Russell explains, “are extended time on tests, a distraction-reduced testing environment, and being allowed to use technology like a calculator or spell checker.”
To ensure these accommodations are made for his patients, Dr. Russell works closely with the hospital team to develop educational plans like Individualized Educational Program (IEP) or 504 Plans.
Additionally, the testing sessions provided by Dr. Russell are designed to assess cognitive functioning with the utmost accuracy while maintaining compassion for the needs of patients.
The assessment includes a comprehensive set of tests to determine the patient’s intellectual potential, emotional functioning, and information processing (like short-term memory, working memory, long-term retrieval, and cognitive processing speed).
"My son had Leukemia at age 2. He is 19 now. He was treated with
Diplomate Counselor, and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
In addition to providing services to Friends of Kids with Cancer patients for over 19 years, he works in private practice with people who have Learning Disabilities, Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, are TwiceExceptional, and clients who have mental health issues.
He has given over 200 workshops nationwide about neurodiversity. See his TEDx talk about Twice-Exceptional (2E) learners.
chemo. No one seemed to understand his deficits and brushed them off due to his scoring and his ability to compensate for his silent disabilities.
Dr. Russell’s evaluation and recommendations were the most thorough assessment, summarization, and plan I’ve ever experienced as both from a patient’s aspect and from myself as a health care provider.
The written evaluation was one thing, but then the in-person discussion further exceeded my expectations. We finally found the information that we needed, and my son finally felt understood which decreased his anxiety."
—Leslie, patient mom
"I was able to define how my chemotherapy and cancer treatment had affected my brain, and more importantly how to deal with and even succeed with said affects."
—Noah Seyer, recent college graduate
"I had no idea how much the longterm effects of chemotherapy shaped the way my brain worked. Dr. Russell helped me understand challenges I could never articulate and quelled a decade of self-doubt and anxiety. He gave me tools and strategies that showed me I could excel with my brain, not in spite of it. Today, as a thriving first-year law student, I am deeply grateful to Dr. Russell and Friends of Kids with Cancer for their continued and unwavering support."
—Carter Fortman, law student
"Isabella‘s treatment caused damage to her ability to process information, it also came with the stress of “getting back to normal” after treatment. So going from fifth grade straight to high school was going to have its challenges.
Friends of Kids with Cancer offered us a consultation with Dr. Russell to evaluate her. He explained to us her weaknesses and where there were needs for improvement.
Dr. Russell also gave us the tools and a new approach to learning that we never would’ve known about on our own, and I’m happy to say with Isabella‘s hard work and Dr. Russell’s knowledge she’s making all A’s and thriving in school.
Also, the compassion and kindness that Dr. Russell and his team have shown Isabella helped build her confidence for returning to school and reminded her that she is not alone.
We are thankful every day for Friends and Dr. Russell. I don’t know where we would be without them."
—Pat, patient dad
Noah Seyer, recent college graduate and recipient of many Friends programs including educational support from Dr. Russell.
At the 27th Annual Golf Tournament, Noah spoke about his experiences. Read more on page 17.
Isabella, patient and recipient of many Friends programs, works with Dr. Russell for educational support.
Spotlight on Kirsten Jones
Kirsten Jones has been volunteering in one capacity or another for Friends of Kids with Cancer for over 16 years.
In 2006, one of her dance students, Carol, was diagnosed with cancer and was a recipient of Friends' services.
"After hearing her mom expressed gratitude to an organization that was doing so much for their family during the hardest time in their lives, I knew I needed to get involved," she said.
Kirsten has seemingly done it all from toy drives and event support, to data entry and running errands. She led Young Friends of Kids with Cancer as their Board President, helping to manage many projects and fundraising events.
Kirsten volunteered as the auction chair for the 2023 Golf Tournament & Auction and has volunteered at the Fashion Show & Boutique.
Now, Kirsten supports the organization as a hired grant writer, writing and submitting grant proposals to bring in more funds.
and
Two weeks before Carol passed away, she expressed hope that Kirsten would continue supporting Friends of Kids with Cancer. For that reason, the organization holds a special place in Kirsten's heart.
"It's how I stay connected to Carol. I think about her at every event," Kirsten expressed.
Her superpower is solving problems — any kind. Her biggest reward is being a mom to three beautiful children with her partner, William. She enjoys writing and will release her first children's book this year. She has a Masters in Public Policy and Administration and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Organization Management and Leadership. She works for Washington University School of Medicine.
Kirsten was born and raised in St. Louis
is the youngest of seven.
Get Involved This Winter
Sign up to volunteer at friendsofkids.com/volunteer
Learn more about fundraising friendsofkids.com/fundraise
Organize the Toy Closet
Use your organizational skills to help organize our office Toy Closet, which supplies three area cancer treatment centers.
With your help, kids who need a smile or motivation at a medical appointment can pick out a toy.
Make Deliveries
Various deliveries are always needed from gift drop-offs, errands, food deliveries, and other curbside deliveries.
Shop
Use your shopping skills to purchase patient gifts, office supplies, snacks, and other necessary goods from area stores.
Donate Seasonal Event Tickets
Donate your tickets to us and we'll send them to a family in need of an outing to support family fun away from the hospital.
Host a Toy Drive and Gift Card Drive
Place a toy collection barrel in your workplace, or at your party, to collect toys for our Toy Closets.
We can help your toy drive succeed with supplies like toy barrels, fliers, and wish lists.
Toy donations are used to stock the Toy Closets at local treatment centers and help distract and comfort children during long, often painful, chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Gift cards are used in the Toy Closet as gifts for older children and teens.
Host a Virtual Donation Drive
See more information about how to easily collect digital donations on page 7
Spotlight on Dave Sinclair Buick-GMC
WRITTEN
BY
DAVE SINCLAIR
BUICK-GMC IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER
At Dave Sinclair Buick-GMC, our passion is delivering 100% customer satisfaction through exceptional service, and supporting incredible organizations like Friends of Kids with Cancer is our privilege.
For more than 30 years, our family-owned dealership has proudly served the St. Louis community, helping customers find their next new, used, or custom vehicle, and providing trusted service and collision repairs.
We’re especially honored to partner with Friends of Kids with Cancer. Whether it’s sponsoring the annual Golf Tournament or the Young Friends Haunted House Party at the Lemp Mansion, we’re proud to stand behind an organization that helps kids with cancer… just be kids!
Supporting Friends of Kids with Cancer isn’t just a partnership. It’s our commitment to bringing comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy to families when life feels anything but normal.
Visit us at 5655 S. Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63123, or call 314-842-4200 today.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY PARTNER
Top 10 Most Requested Toys
Throughout the year, Morgyn Johnson, Program Coordinator, collects and purchases toys directly from the wish lists of our pediatric cancer patients. We like to call her our toy expert. Here are some great ideas for your next toy drive.
#1 LEGO
Sets like DUPLO Building Bricks, Minecraft, LEGO City, LEGO Technic, and LEGO Friends.
#2 SLIME
Slime, putty, and kits for making slime.
#3 FIDGET & SENSORY TOYS
These are small objects used for pleasant but purposeless activity with the hands.
#4 PRETEND KITCHEN & FOOD
Play food, cutlery, and kitchen items to play pretend.
#5 DIAMOND ART KITS
Arts and crafts kits that can be created in hospital beds.
GUEST WRITER
Morgyn Johnson, Program Coordinator
#6 R/C CARS
Remote control cars for all ages and genders.
#7 POKÉMON
Anything Pokemon like cards and figures.
#8 THE AVENGERS
The Avengers superhero toys of all kinds.
#9 KINETIC SAND
It’s like slime, but less messy.
#10 DINOSAURS
Anything dinosaurs like Lego, models, and figures.
Find our toy drive wishlist at friendsofkids.com/wishlist
Friends of Kids with Cancer sends toys to our local treatment centers weekly and uses toys for many different programs. Toys are often given in clinics or for children in-patient as a recreational distraction, for a mood boost, special celebration, or for when children are undergoing radiation. Radiation patients receive a “prize” for every day of treatment they complete.
small huge. For a your help is cancer patient
Meet Megan, Cohen, Adalynn, & Logan
In the spring of 2024, 8-year-old Adalynn and her parents were told to pack a bag for an extended stay at St. Louis Children’s Hospital after weeks of leg pain and the development of sores and red spots on her body.
The family faced the devastating news that little Adalynn has a rare form of high-risk Leukemia known as Ph+ B-ALL.
“When Adalynn’s stepdad and I told her about her diagnosis, she never once complained or asked why her. Her smile never faded, and her strength only grew.”
While doctors and nurses were working hard to treat her illness, this little social butterfly was no longer able to go to school, play in parks or public places, or see her friends.
“Friends of Kids has helped her SO much with that, from the events they plan to the gifts they give. She’s missed birthday parties, holidays, and school events, but Friends of Kids always brought it to her, from hosting a small birthday party at clinic to helping with holidays.”
Friends of Kids has supported the family with many small special moments like a Barbie birthday party in the hospital, tickets to sporting events like St. Louis CITY Soccer, holiday gifts, and more.
Plus, Adalynn was selected to be a model in the Fashion Show & Boutique fundraiser event in 2024, where she made great friends with other kids like herself and giggled down the runway, even while having to carry a medication bag.
“The weight of cancer does not just affect your child but your entire family. You will go through every emotion as a parent, but the love for your child will grow so much more watching them fight a battle they should never have to go through. Seeing how strong they are will make you so proud.”
No child should have to face the devastating effects of a cancer diagnosis. Through the support of donors like you, Friends of Kids brings joy, laughter, and love in even the toughest moments for hundreds of families just like Adalynn’s.
Adalynn's Barbie Themed Birthday party Smile Maker.
New friends Adalynn and Lamyrah walking in the 2024 Fashion Show.
Adalynn's Family posing at the Back to School Bash photo booth at the Magic House.
Adalynn and Step-Dad, Logan, at a St. Louis CITY SC game.
From the Board President
The joy of the holiday season is here, and for many, this time of year is filled with planning festive meals, shopping for gifts, and celebrating with loved ones. But for our families, the season often feels different.
Holiday cheer can be overshadowed by stressful treatments and the heavy weight of financial strain. Parents, especially, feel the pressure of trying to create a “normal” holiday experience for their children in the midst of extraordinary challenges.
With the support of our community, Friends of Kids with Cancer brings joy back into the lives of families facing the challenges of childhood cancer, not only during the holidays, but every day.
We provide families with no-cost programs that ease stress and help kids feel like kids again. From meals, special gifts, and fun activities, to confidence-building tutoring, therapy, and opportunities to connect with other children who understand their journey, Friends is here to uplift families every step of the way.
We also give families the chance to enjoy special outings like ball games, plays, dazzling holiday lights, and other memorable events.
It’s the kindness and generosity of individuals like you that make these moments possible. Your support has helped children like Adalynn, who is naturally a social butterfly and forced to be isolated in treatment, feel like herself again through the Fashion Show, family parties, and special celebrations Friends created for her. And, her whole family has been supported through programs like Adopt-a Family.
As we close out 2025, we invite you to join us in bringing hope and joy to these kids. Your gift today will help us continue providing laughter, love, and, most importantly, a sense of normalcy for pediatric cancer patients and their families, during the holiday season and throughout the year.
With gratitude,
During the holiday season, Friends provides extra support through our coat drive, Adopt-a-Family program, and cherished celebrations like the Fall Festival and Winter Wonderland parties.
Karen Korn Board President Friends of Kids with Cancer
New 5K in Illinois, Miles for Marshall, Raises $24,500
When third grader Marshall was diagnosed with leukemia last year, his mom Christina felt compelled to do something to help other kids and families facing similar circumstances. She knew the family needed to channel their grief and pain into something bigger.
Along with volunteers and a committee, she created the inaugural Miles for Marshall 5K Trail Run for Childhood Cancer, pledging to donate all proceeds to Friends of Kids with Cancer.
Christina said Friends was an easy choice to for whom to partner with and donate to because of how the family experienced our programs at their clinic.
Thanks to runners, walkers, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters, Miles for Marshall raised $24,500 for Friends of Kids with Cancer.
During their check presentation at the Friends office, Christina expressed to the Board of Directors
how Marshall never left the clinic empty handed because of the Toy Closet. They received Munchie Meals and, when she received a Mother's Day gift, Christina realized that Friends is dedicated to serving the whole family.
This was an impactful moment for her. She decided to fundraise for Friends because she was drawn to an organization created by moms who "got it." She expressed that she feels this organization is made up of "her people."
Christina said she and Marshall he had no idea the 5K would be as big and as successful as it turned out to be. The event drew in 232 runners from across the region and from out of state, some of whom were a part of the care team as his treatment center.
Friends of Kids with Cancer mirror's Christina's message to supporters displayed on the event website.
"Thank you for proving once again that our community doesn’t just step up… we RUN for what matters!"
The next Miles for Marshall 5K is set for September 26, 2026. Follow Miles for Marshall on Facebook and Instagram, and see updated information about the event at milesformarshall.com.
FRIENDS' FAMILY FUNDRAISER SPOTLIGHT
Drew's Amazing Birthday Collection Toy Drive in Memory of Drew Albritton
This year, Drew Albritton would have been 16, and to honor his memory, his family has hosted a superhero-themed toy drive each year over the past 10 years during his birthday month.
Each year, Drew's Superhero Toy Drive is very substantial, thanks to community support. This year's donation is estimated at around 700 toys, valued at over $7,800 worth of quality toys.
"We have been fortunate to have friends, family, classmates at Zion Lutheran School St. Charles, and many others who donate annually, " Drew's mother, Elizabeth, expressed.
Friends estimates that this toy drive has brought in a total of about $47,000 in gifts since 2017.
"Ironman was his favorite, so superheroes seemed like the best place to start and it stuck!
Friends of Kids with Cancer has given so much to our family from toys when he completed radiation to grief support group and everything in between," Elizabeth said.
27 Years of Inspiring Golf: Raising "Kindness, Support, & Generosity"
As concerns about rain were building, the morning of Monday, May 19 proved to be a warm, dry one, as committee members, volunteers, and Friends of Kids with Cancer board members and staff arrived to set up for the 27th Annual Golf Tournament & Auction.
As guests arrived, Russo's Gourmet Catering served a delicious and hearty breakfast alongside drinks such as coffee and Bloody Marys. Golfers began buying tickets for the biggest Whiskey Pull in event history, and started placing their bids for coveted Silent Auction items.
Soon, special guests arrived to speak to the crowd of over three hundred, inspiring golfers to have a great game for this cause.
"The work that this charity does, whether it's counseling or tutoring, means so much. I just want to say thank you. The St. Louis community is so
amazing. There's so many people you see every year here at this tournament, and it means a lot. I couldn't be happier to be here in St. Louis."
—Robert Thomas, St. Louis Blues Center
Honorary event co-chair, Robert Thomas, Center for the St. Louis Blues, introduced our special morning guest, Bell, who talked about her young life facing cancer and how Friends of Kids with Cancer has helped her family along the way.
"I was petrified and at a loss for words. Friends of Kids with Cancer sent a Music Therapist, Cara, to sit with me and play music to help me calm down before my first operation. She has become one of my dearest friends.
Friends of Kids with Cancer stepped in and adopted my family for Christmas, knowing my mom and dad were in the hospital with me and didn't have time to buy presents for Christmas.
Friends of Kids with Cancer and the team at [the hospital] have wrapped their arms around me and my family throughout my treatment. The support and efforts of people like you here today make these programs and events possible."
—Bell, age 13
For over 25 years, Rick Lommel has chaired this event, planning each detail to make this the premium St. Louis charity golf tournament alongside committee members, volunteers, and Friends staff and Board.
When golfers returned to the country club for the evening program, Rick handed the microphone to his co-chair and son, Ryan Lommel, for the first time, "passing the torch" for future generations of Golf Tournament committee chairs. Rick spoke to his recent retirement from his career and how much money this event
has brought to the charity since its inception—nearly $5,000,000.
Ryan Lommel introduced the evening's special guest, Noah, who spoke about his experience as a young adult diagnosed with pediatric cancer during his first semester of college.
"Through Friends, I joined the AYA support group—monthly meetings where we laugh, talk about treatments, and provide advice and support for new patients. These weren't just social moments that I attended; they were survival moments. I found community, joy, and people who saw me for more than my cancer diagnosis.
This past semester, Friends provided me with something I am eternally grateful for. A scholarship to help pay for my final semester of college. Friends' acts of generosity ensured that I could walk across graduation just last week, healthy and in remission, and on track to teach math to the next generation
The truth is, this journey would have looked very different without Friends, and the friends who I've made through this organization, both staff and fellow survivors. They've helped me stay grounded, gave me something to look forward to, and reminded me that even in the midst of cancer, we're allowed to laugh, celebrate, and live."
—Noah, age 23
Robert Thomas, Bell, and Noah aren't the only people struck by the community's generosity through giving at this event. Tegan Wylde of Ben Hur Construction Co. posted
on LinkedIn about her experience as a guest.
"Yesterday's golf tournament wasn’t just a day on the course—it was a reminder of the power of compassion, community, and purpose. ...it was so much more than a fundraiser. This incredible organization holds a special place in my heart for the unwavering support they provide to children and families battling cancer."
—Tegan Wylde, Business Development at Ben Hur Construction Co.
We thank the incredible, unwavering support of our longtime sponsors and attendees of this event, as well as newcomers. Without the help of kind donors, sponsors, and volunteers, Friends of Kids with Cancer could not meet our mission of enriching the daily lives of pediatric cancer patients and their families.
"Thank you for helping me get through a very bad time in my life, and especially thank you so much for your kindness, support, and generosity."
—Bell
THANK YOU TO OUR MAJOR SPONSORS
Titanium Sponsor Ally Financial
Platinum Sponsors
Baumann Property Company
Dave Sinclair Buick-GMC
Dave Sinclair Ford Evolv
Northwestern Mutual—Clayton Veregy
Gold Sponsors
Jersey Mike's Subs
Thomas Industrial Coatings
Silver Sponsors
Castle Contracting
Enterprise Holdings
Jim Taylor, Inc.
Painter Supply / PPG Proximo
Sonus Benefits
Suntory Global Spirits
Record Amount of Over $103K Raised at Art from the Heart®
The 16th Annual Art from the Heart®, presented by Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis, celebrated sixteen years of showcasing artwork and appreciating the expressive minds of extraordinary artists affected by pediatric cancer. This year’s event raised a record-breaking $103,000 for Friends of Kids with Cancer’s art therapy program.
Guests who have attended Art from the Heart® will tell you it’s more than just a fundraiser. This truly unique event allows many artists and their families to proudly give back to an organization that has supported them.
The celebration honors patient and sibling artists while raising funds to continue art therapy programming at our three partner hospitals: Mercy, SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, and St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Working with a variety of art materials, art therapists help patients express their emotions, offering a creative outlet for the pain and confusion that can accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Each piece of art is then donated by the artist or their family to Friends of Kids with Cancer for auction.
Generous local art galleries and frame shops prepare each piece for hanging or display so that auction winners can enjoy the artwork for years to come.
The inspiring artwork ranged from adorable rainbows and pet portraits to heartfelt pieces featuring lyrics and poems. Every artist received a copy of their artwork during the artist ceremony at the event.
Artists shared their excitement as patrons bid on their creations while
enjoying their private space in the “Arty Party Room,” a lively area filled with fun and camaraderie just for the artists.
This event is made possible by our generous donors, including Presenting Sponsor Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis, who host the event in their beautiful dealership showroom. Not only do they provide the venue at no cost to the organization, but they also solicit donations, supply drinks for the bar, and underwrite much of the event’s expenses.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all the volunteers, committee members, framers, and everyone who donated or bid in the auction in support of these amazing artists.
THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR
THANK YOU TO OUR TITLE SPONSOR
RENAISSANCE SPONSORS
Service Metal
Dave & Jody Young
IMPRESSIONIST SPONSORS
Eaton Bussmann
Reynolds & Reynolds
Sara Sindelar
Lexus Financial
Crest Industries
ARTWORK FRAMING PROVIDED BY Arch Design The Artery Custom Framing
TOC Artwork
Grafica Fine Art & Custom Framing, Dogtown Gallery & Frame Shop McCaughen & Burr Fine Arts
A special thank you to Arch Design for their extra efforts expediting framing of additional artwork.
Northwestern Mutual new partnership, long-lasting support
After many years of supporting Friends of Kids with Cancer, Northwestern Mutual—Clayton increased their donation by becoming major sponsors of our two biggest fundraising events, the Golf Tournament & Auction and Fashion Show & Boutique.
" Since 2012, Northwestern Mutual has been committed to accelerating the search for better treatments and more cures for childhood cancer.
Our agency wanted to bring that support locally for families who are affected right here in St. Louis, and knew we wanted to be part of Friends
of Kids with Cancer’s mission. We are proud to partner with Friends of Kids with Cancer!"—Stephanie Leggett, Director of Marketing, on behalf of Northwestern Mutual – Clayton
Sponsorship support is crucial to the success of Friends of Kids with Cancer's fundraising event efforts, ensuring quality programs for local patients and families.
Spotlight on Noodles & Company
Kicking off a new partnership with Friends of Kids with Cancer, Noodles & Company hosted a month of giving at their six locations within the region. Guests donated at the register to put their name up at the store to support Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September.
Donations from one dollar to ten dollars came in, raising over $1,680 over the month of September.
Noodles & Company became aware of Friends through the Munchie Meals program, when food was ordered and sent to treatment centers.
"We saw a large order come through from Friends of Kids and wanted to learn more," said Jeff Harp, Vice President of Noodles & Caribou Operations.
Since the launch of the partnership, Noodles & Company
has pledged to support Friends throughout the year, getting managers and team members involved with goal-making and creative ideas for fundraising.
The restaurant donated food and live cooking service at Friends' Art from the Heart® fundraiser at the end of September, which helped to raise over $103,000 through the event for Friends art therapy program.
Friends of Kids with Cancer is truly grateful for partnerships like these where both the corporation and team members get involved supporting giving.
VISIT NOODLES & COMPANY AT THESE REGIONAL LOCATIONS
Noodles Creve Coeur
Noodles Chesterfield
Noodles Richmond Heights
Noodles Hampton Village
Noodles Green Mount Crossing, Shiloh, IL
Noodles Columbia, MO
Honor Donations
January–April 2025
Jay Adams
Ann Bauer
CFLA Colleagues
Rodney Bahr
Sarah Noble
Beckham Bass
Janet Bass
Dr. and Mrs. Bergamini
JoAnn Graziano & Alan Weber
Carole Ann Brown
Fred Brown
Kathy Buchan
Bob, Wendy and Charlie Jones
Jonathan Burke
Kathy Manganaro
Mark Neill
Cardinal Glennon Oncology Dept.
Rachael Craddick
Steven Conner
St. Clair R-XIII School District
Jack Dannegger
Mark and Mary Dannegger
Max Del Rosario
Rachel Eppler
Gene and Lee Deutsch
Lynn and Ben Rassieur
Blair Dubinsky & Family
Steven and Stephanie Kasok
Heath Elliston
John and Stacy Swartz
Natasha Hanson
Cynthia Hammersmith
Lynda Hartman
Tad Yankoski
Rick and Molly Henry
Steve Morovitz
James Hill, Sr.
EY - James Hill
James Hill
HONORARY DONATIONS
BOLD NAMES ARE THOSE BEING HONORED OR MEMORIALIZED.
Louis Italian
City of Bellefontaine Neighbors Swim
Team
George Jankowski
Sarah Jankowski
Nolan Joggerst
Roxanne Joggerst Toy Drive
Justin Jones
DiAnn Jones
Lisa Keener
DL Creations - Leslie Sheldon
Mya Kershenski
Robert and Elizabeth Bergman
Logan Kowalski & Family
Amy Adams
Jozie Kraemer
Jozie Strong Benefit Fundraiser
Karla Isaak
Diane and Michael Kraemer
Kaylyn Lato-Wall
Debbie and Robert Lato
Bryce Lich
Jill Gray - Higher Focus Photography
Hazel Meisinger
Linda Baker
Lois Haller
Jaxon Menner
Barbara Menner
Jude Morgan
Thomas Davis
Jill Nassif
Saxony Securities
Jake Neu
The Lohse Family
Ross and Katelin Nickel
Ilana Rosman
Lilly Ohlsen
Four Hands Brewery Toy Drive
Ezra Pauley
Bradley and Leslie Pauley
Auggie Powers
Patty Powers
Christian Renaud
Hudson Elementary Daisy Troop 4550
Jacob Renaud
Hudson Elementary Daisy Troop 4550
Jeff Rose
Don Rose
Emma Rowland
Amy Lewandowski & Steven Roedersheimer
The Salem Family
Kevin and Lisa Robben
Alex Schnarre
Suzanne and Alex Schnarre
Andrew Shah City of Bellefontaine Neighbors
Swim Team
Sarah Sordo
John and Cynthia Shaw
Jim and Sadie Smith
Mike Spathelf
Michael Aufdenspring
Marshall Staff
Miles for Marshall
Alex Venardos
Melissa Venardos
Eva Wilhelm Sanchez
Maria Sanchez
Molly Willis
Dan and Amber Willis
Goldie Wirth
Cushman & Wakefield
Jack Goldsborough
Kathryn Lane
Chris and Stephanie Mazza
Erin Prest
Memorial Donations
January–April 2025
Drew Albritton
Elizabeth and Mike Albritton
Dean Carroll
Zion Lutheran School
Louis Appel
Daniel Kelley
Diego Barch
Diego Barch Toy Drive
Adam Behrhorst
Lana Juedemann
Kinslee Marie Brock
Becca Murphy
Mike Ciapciak
Judy Ciapciak
Bob Cohen
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
Karen and Bruce Korn
Marla Cohen
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
Jonathan B. Cook
Holly Stambaugh
Marilyn Dardick
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
Arianna Dougan
Andrew and Deborah Schwartz
Patricia "Tricia" Erwin
Louise Crowe
Mike and Karen Fleming
Jake Franzel
Jake's Crew
Dee and Steven Mintz
Dr. Karen M. Gauvain
Korey and Hallie Gauvain
The Lombardo Family
Jamir Gibbs
Amanda Miller
Debbie Gilbert
Angie Douglas
Louie Gilbert
Karen Johnson
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
BOLD NAMES ARE THOSE BEING HONORED OR MEMORIALIZED.
Bernadette Godfrey
Ross and Melinda Ackerson
Kim Bryant
Andrew Godfrey
Danielle Godfrey
Kathleen and Tony Godfrey
Louie and Frankie Godfrey
Nick and Danielle Godfrey
Tim and Megan Godfrey
Henschel Sales, Inc.
Midwest Cabinets & More
The O'Shea Family
WALB Properties LLC
Erin and Mike Zawalski
Derek Griffitts
Rebecca Kile
Joe Gubser
Tom and Jane Obremski
Bruce Hendin
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
Ellen Henry
Molly and Rick Henry
Steve Morovitz
John Henry
David Dresner
Molly and Rick Henry
Steve Morovitz
Jack Higgins
Pat and Michelle Higgins
Carter Hinkle
Melinda Smith
Lynn Hittler
Patrick and Susan Knoll
Nicholas Hundelt
Joan Hundelt
Trevor Joerling
New Melle Sports & Recreation, Inc.
SKPRINT
Jessica Johnson
Megan and Brian Thornton
Fred Kaestner
Roger and Debbie Aholt
The Eggers Family & Maureen
Summerfield
Steve and Patti Friess
Matthew and Cheryl Kight
Tracy Kight
Dave and Vicki Mar
Randy and Rita Mathews
Lois Orr
Paragon Star
Kevin and Janet Smith
Carol Spyers
Vickie Summerfield
Stu Keck
Susan Keck
Walter Kershenski
Charles and Rosemary Aquino
Robert and Elizabeth Bergman
Robert and Mildred Black
Kathleen Chott
The Dallison Sisters
Alfred and Annette Doktor
William and Kristine Genagon
Cheryl Glover
Linda Paine Hughes and Aunt Janet
Robert and Laura Mullen
Ken, Colette & Colleen Pagels
Peggy Lou, Rob & Bernadette
Jeff, Kelley, Mallory & Austin
Schoenwetter
SLUH
Jack and Norma Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Squires
Paul and Joanne Tenney
Mr. and Mrs. John Wilczynski
John and Leona Woodworth
Sandra Key
Dave and Sue Domian
Scott Kilzer
Sherry and Larry Titchenal
Norman & Caroline Kistner
James Kistner
Steve Koirtyohann
Julia Koirtyohann
Caden Leesmann
Crystal Ruth
Caleb Leslie
Beth and Ryan Leslie
Leslee Levey
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
Emily Linneman
Sharon Roth
Ruth Luzecky
Karen Korn Interiors
Anne Malecek
Ed Schmid
Nick McCord
Kelly and Duane McCord
Patricia J. McDonald
Lemay Aces
Lauren McDonnal
First Watch Restaurants
Bob McKendry
Casey McBride
John "Patrick" McLain
1982 Farmington High School
Classmates
Sharon and George Albers
Beta Sigma Phi
Cathy and Dean Charles
Chuck and Susie Cook
Dennis Cook
Hilary Feshbach
Jim Friedel
The Haag Family
Jennifer and John Hein
Drew Karl
Leslie Limbaugh
Douglas and Leslie McCollum
Glenn and Linda Miller
George and Carol Sconyers
Nancy Silvey
Brent St. John
Steve, Dave, Jesse, Brandon, Travis &
Brad
United Construction
Cindy and Bob Usher
Walker and Keeley Williamson
The Yehlens
Charlotte Meatte
Anita and Andrew Higginbotham
Mary Ellen Christman Hyde Mooney
Molly and Rick Henry
Maxine and Henry Morose
Jill and Ben Turec
Nelson Morose
Jerri Gerth
Jill and Ben Turec
Jacob Mosley
Paul and Lisa Mosley
Tom Mulvihill
Kathy Manganaro
Karen Nagle & Norman Gray
Caleb Nehring
Acutalent
Caleb Nehring Blood & Toy Drive
The Nehring Family
Tom Nilsen
Kathleen Freese
Janet O'Connell
Tony and Kathleen Godfrey
Charles Palus
Kenny Lander
Inga Pariera
Patricia DeLuca
Alma Noah Parker
Janice Baniak
Christine and Sam Cigno
Leah Pochek
David Prothero
Susan Perrin
Dr. and Mrs. Peter Bettonville
Elora Petrasek
Rosalynn Petrasek
Gregory Powers, Sr.
Patty Powers
Joe Powers
Patty Powers
Hope Revelle
Niki Greenfield
Mary Beth Ricken
George Kriegshauser
Kaye Roberts
Anonymous Donor
Lynn Born
Lynn Hollis
Thomas and Rita Hutson
Remington Oaks Recreational
Association
Frank Roberts
Eli Robinson
Ben and Lisa Nolan
Lillie Robinson
The Tracy Family
Jill Saettele
Kris and Emily Arneson
Joseph Sanfilippo
Casey McBride
Terry Schulte
Bruce and Kelly Hilton
Jonathan Shelley
Rosalynn Petrasek
Sheila Sherman
Jay and Susie Dubinsky
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
BOLD NAMES ARE THOSE BEING HONORED OR MEMORIALIZED.
Sharon Sifford
Anonymous Donors
Sheri Clark
Jon Kirk Simpkins
John Brasile
Cope Plastics, Inc.
Todd Druley
FRB
Russ Gewin
Patricia Goessling
Nerinx Hall High School
Open Door To Recovery
Millie Shelton
Eileen Sondermann
Lemay Aces
Nicholas Sotiropoulos
Sarah Sotiropoulos
Griffin Thomas
Vandette Anderson
Cheryl Cohen-Bugner
Debbie Hoch
Kathy Thomas
Katie Titchenal
Lawrence and Sherry Titchenal
Wolf and Celia Turec
Ben and Jill Turec
Hudson Van Roekel
Paul and Carol Adkins
Teresa Balestreri
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Burkhardt
Amy Carapella
Cisco Systems, Inc.
Jeff Erwin
Kelly Evans
Marvin and Glenda Fedders
Edie Goodwin
Thomas Hartnagel
Daniel and Linda Hoffman
The Husas
The Johnson Family
Thomas Johnson
Cynthia Martin
Ian and Elaine McMurtrie
Stacy and Kern McMurtrie
Nicole Papuga
Dr. Robert & Karen Scheiber
Tigers Baseball Team
Steven and Cynthia Wagner
Pete Venincasa
Kenneth Ohlemeyer
Ken and Nancy Ohlemeyer
Terry and Kathleen Weis
Bonnie Vento
Patrick and Stella Corley
Michael Watson
Mike, Sharon & Family
Doris Wilson
Terri Dees
Patricia Wolf
David and Jean Brinkmeyer
John and Barbara Hock
Robert and Kelley Hock
James and Karen Howard
Jerry and Lisa Ornellas
John and Donna Wolf
Sandy Wolff
David and Susan Henschel
FOR A CHILD WITH CANCER MAKING A
IS A GIFT THAT
PLAN YOUR ESTATE TO MAKE A LASTING DAILY IMPACT ON THE LIVES OF CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER AND THEIR FAMILIES.
Friends of Kids with Cancer makes every day a little bit easier with toys, activities, big gifts, and family gatherings the entire family can enjoy.
Make today better for a child and family facing the harsh realities of a cancer diagnosis.
Carry your legacy to benefit future generations of children in St. Louis diagnosed with cancer.
Learn how you can donate will bequests, real estate, equities, property, life insurance, securities/stock, retirement savings, and other assets of your choosing.
Contact Brandy Bimslager for more information about how you can plan your gift.
Email: brandy@friendsofkids.com
Phone: 314.275.7440
Learn more about ways to give at friendsofkids.com/waystogive
St. Louis, MO Permit No. 1197
16 Sunnen Drive, Suite 161
St. Louis, MO 63143
SAVE THE DATES FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS BENEFITING FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER
STAY UPDATED ON ALL OUR 2026 EVENTS BY VISITING FRIENDSOFKIDS.COM/EVENTS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
Young Friends 12 Bars of Charity at The Stadium District, The Grove, & Soulard 12barsofcharity.com/st-louis
FRIDAY, MARCH 6
Trivia Night at Moolah Shrine Center friendsofkids.com/trivia
SATURDAY, APRIL 11
Walk with a Friend at Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park friendsofkids.com/walk
FRIDAY, MARCH 21
Young Friends Voodoo in the Lou Location TBD friendsofkids.com/voodoo
MONDAY, MAY 18
Golf Tournament & Auction at Whitmoor Country Club friendsofkids.com/golf
FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS
Fashion, Fun, and Philanthropy at 31st Fashion Show
In early November, nearly 1,000 generous members of the St. Louis community gathered to celebrate an incredible 31 years of fostering empowerment, carefree silliness, and all-day excitement for children undergoing cancer treatment at Friends of Kids with Cancer’s Fashion Show & Boutique fundraising event.
This event transformed 31 patients into fabulously dressed models whose vibrant personalities bloomed on stage. Throughout the 31 years of annual fashion show events , each and every show stands out as new patients grab the microphone, tell jokes, sing songs, and often transform from shy kids into confident models
Not only did these kids and their families receive celebrity treatment, but the luncheon and dinner shows also raised more than $693,000 in gross donations, approximately $85,000 more than the prior year. This tremendous success is
credited to the many individuals and businesses who sponsor, donate funds, time, talents, items, and packages, as well as to all those who attend, buy raffle tickets, bid in the auctions, and raise their paddles to donate.
The team is currently accounting for event expenses, including venue costs, catering, and entertainment, and the total net proceeds will be reported in the organization’s 2025 Annual Report. These funds go directly to support Friends of Kids with Cancer.
"Thank you to all of you for hosting such a beautiful and magical event for these children and families! ...I feel so very lucky to have been able to witness the beauty of this event and how deeply special and touching it was to watch these children and their families be championed and cherished." — Corry Cande, service provider and model in the Fashion Show.
