Transplant/Donor Programs

Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Networkbmtinfonet.orgThis site provides resource information for transplant centers by disease or type of marrow transplant needed. DKMSdkms.org/DKMS is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and blood disorders. HelpHOPELive (formerly National Transplant Assistance Fund)helphopelive.orgHelps individuals and families to overcome financial barriers related to transplantation or catastrophic injury through grass-roots fundraising. National Cancer…

Transportation

Air Charity Network (formerly Angel Flight America)aircharitynetwork.orgAir Charity Network is made up of independent charity organizations that arrange free air ambulance flights for those patients and families in need. American Airlines – Miles for Kids in Needaa.com/kidsThe Miles for Kids in Need program provides transportation for children and their families, as well as for organizations dedicated to improving the quality…

Health Insurance and Legal Information

Patient Advocate Foundation | www.patientadvocate.orgCo-Pay Relief Program | www.copays.orgThe Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief Program currently provides direct financial support to insured patients, including Medicare Part D beneficiaries, who financially and medically qualify to access pharmaceutical co-payment assistance. The program offers free financial advice and free legal consultation about health insurance. First Hand Foundationfirsthandfoundation.orgFirst Hand Foundation, founded by the Cerner Corporation, helps…

Why Riding is so Rewarding

I have supported Friends of Karen by riding in the Journey of the Heart Bike Tour since 2013. I ride for the children, their families, and for me. Obviously, the children and their families need all the support they can get. They are dealing with life-threatening illnesses that tear at the very fabric of their family life.

A Father’s Story

Manuel is the father of 14-year-old Rashelle, who recently completed treatment for
Rhabdomyosarcoma, a disease in which cancer cells form in muscle tissue. Rashelle
was diagnosed in 2021 and relapsed in July 2022 after this article was written. The
family lives in New York City.

Small moments create lasting memories

This summer spend time together as a family forming new memories by enjoying each others’ company. When a child in a family becomes ill most people typically realize how precious small moments are. Friends of Karen is a great resource for families offering financial and emotional support, but there are additional resources throughout the community that families can utilize to…

Friends of Karen Announces New Board President

North Salem, NY – March 30, 2022: Friends of Karen, a nonprofit organization that supports children with life-threatening illnesses and their families, announced Richard Sgaglio will serve as the new President of its Board of Directors. Outgoing President Paul Smadbeck, known for his dedication to the organization for 26 years, will continue to serve on the Board.

Celebrate the holiday spirit by giving to a child

NORTH SALEM, NY, November 10, 2021 — Help Friends of Karen deliver gifts and smiles for the holidays! Nearly 900 Holiday Wish Lists need to be filled this year. Join us in helping fulfill a child’s wish list or fill the lists for several children. You will be the reason our children smile this holiday season. Each child sends us a…

Friends of Karen Gets Ready for Back to School 2021

It has undoubtedly been a year like no other for all of us, but for the critically ill children and their families served by Friends of Karen, life remains complicated. As the rest of the world prepares to return to something a bit more normal, our families are still experiencing severe financial hardships added to the overwhelming stress of their child’s illness.