Category: What’s New
Holiday Sibling Spotlight
November 20, 2025
Traditions provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Whether it is Grandma’s famous recipe, a favorite holiday song, a blessing or prayer recited by heart or a story passed down through generations. Rituals bring meaning, nurture connections and give us something to look forward to and hope for.
Halloween Fun
October 9, 2025
For those who celebrate, Halloween is a fun and exciting time for kids. But what do you do when your child is missing out on the fun? Whether staying home is necessary for the immuno-compromised, or an ill child is stuck in the hospital for treatment, this disappointing situation is common for many of our Friends of Karen families.
Back to School 2025
September 3, 2025
Back to school season has long been a busy time at Friends of Karen. For weeks staff members and volunteers have been tirelessly working to fulfill school supply lists for our Friends of Karen children and their siblings. It is all well worth it when we receive photos of the adorable children smiling ear to ear with the wonderful backpacks
Friends of Karen Summer Tips
July 31, 2025
With summer in full swing, parenting an ill child and their well siblings can prove to be a challenge. How do you balance doctors appointments and long hours at the clinic with the yearning to enjoy the pleasures of summer?
Summer Fun, Tips for Parents
June 23, 2025
As we near the end of school and transition into summer, shifting schedules and routines can sometimes feel overwhelming. The end of the school year is often very busy; add in treatment, the hospital, and clinic, and there can be a feeling of exhaustion for both children and parents. Here are a few tips and tricks for a smooth transition
Will I Feel Anything?
June 2, 2025
With the imminent passing of my dear son Luke upon us, his last question to me was, “Will I feel anything?” I was sure he was referring to the pain he was enduring as a result of being ravaged with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) which had spread throughout his body. I immediately answered, “No sweetheart, you will just fall into a beautiful peaceful sleep.” Only by the grace of God did he hear those words.
Celebrating Friends of Karen Moms on Mother’s Day
May 9, 2025
The Friends of Karen Family Support Team develops strong bonds with the families they work with through the span of many months and at times, years. Though every family is unique, and we view each member of the family as special, the boundless love and strength of the mothers inspire our continuous and steadfast support.
April is Volunteer Recognition Month -We Love Our Volunteers
April 15, 2025
We recognize and thank our corporate, group and individual volunteers for their time and talents to help bring smiles to critically ill children and their families through our gift programs.
Galentine’s Day
April 15, 2025
Jaclyn Sandoval and her Galentine’s committee hosted their 3rd annual heart-filled Galentine’s in February that raised $53,000 – triple what they raised the first year of the event in 2023.
Bobo’s Café
April 15, 2025
Bobo’s Café hosted a golf fundraiser for Friends of Karen in October at Angelbrook Golf Club in Somers. The day’s highlight was guest speaker Sterling whose family received assistance from Friends of Karen.
Helping Classmates Understand Their Friend’s Illness
April 14, 2025
One of Friends of Karen’s strengths is meeting a family where they are and tailoring our support to their needs. Often that’s an opportunity to provide our expertise in new, creative ways. A perfect example of our creativity is how Jennifer, one of our Sibling Support Program professionals, worked with Michael in September 2023 when his little brother John was
Autosport Designs Cars & Coffee
April 11, 2025
Long Island Advisory Board Member and 2025 Long Island Gala Honoree, Tom Papadopoulos and his wife Farelle hosted “Cars & Coffee” at Autosport Designs benefiting Friends of Karen.
New York City Gala Honorees
April 11, 2025
Jim Witt, Maria Karalis, and Susan Eisner were honored at the 2024 New York City Gala for their inspiring dedication and commitment to Friends of Karen.
Hockey With a Heart
April 11, 2025
Our Long Island Advisory Board and Jr. Advisory Board helped make the New York Islanders Hockey With a Heart night a success. Friends of Karen was the selected nonprofit for the October 26th game at UBS Arena.
Siblings Day, We See You
April 10, 2025
April 10th marks National Siblings Day- many people will share photos of loved ones on social media and reflect and reminisce about the very special bond of support, friendship and love shared between siblings. At Friends of Karen the sibling relationship is one especially close to our hearts. The Sibling Support Specialists at Friends of Karen, are dedicated Child Life
Sharing our Expertise with a Wider Audience Through Forbes
April 9, 2025
Friends of Karen was invited recently to participate in Forbes EQ (Equity Quotient) BrandVoice, a content marketing initiative. We are thrilled to have this opportunity, at no cost to Friends of Karen, to showcase the expertise of our talented team to a wider audience. This relationship with Forbes enabled us to develop and publish a series of articles for the
The Unique Challenges of Young Adults Facing Cancer
April 8, 2025
Meet George. A cancer diagnosis in young adulthood disrupts a critical period of growth and independence. For many, this stage of life is defined by dreams of the future—beginning careers, exploring relationships, and stepping into self-sufficiency. But for young adults like George, a life-threatening illness changes everything. The desire for independence clashes with the harsh reality of needing to rely on others for daily support. Dreams are placed on hold, isolation becomes a constant companion, and guilt over not being able to support oneself can weigh heavily.
Supporting His Family Through Uncertain Times
April 8, 2025
Meet Ayden. When five-year-old Ayden fell in June 2024, he felt intense pain that was not helped by an over-the-counter pain reliever. His mother, Sandra, knew it was time to take him to the Emergency Room.
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