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Letter from Greg McMackin (PDF) February 22, 2008 Dear HCCF Friend and Supporter: As the U.H. football coach I have the opportunity to work with young men who are in peak physical condition, primed to meet the challenges on the football field. But here in our community there are hundreds of families facing a more formidable challenge: they have a child who has been diagnosed with cancer. For these families, the physical, emotional, and financial impact can be overwhelming. The good news is that 75% of children survive childhood cancer. But treatment averages 12 months to 3 years and annual out of-pocket costs of having a child with cancer are about 53% of the average gross family income. What's more, very often one parent will need to stop working to care full-time for their child. From the moment a family receives the diagnosis, Hawaii Children' s Cancer Foundation (HCCF) is there to help. With "survival kits" for newly diagnosed children and their families. With financial assistance f or expenses not covered by health insurance - including medical bills, rent, mortgage and utilities payments, and transportation and lodging costs for Neighbor Island families. And with education, advocacy, and programs that help children succeed in school during and after treatment, and that assist survivors who are attending college. On Saturday, May 17, 2008 HCCF will present "Lobster & Linguini" at Murphy' s Bar and Grill. This is their annual fundraising event that raises more than $100,000 to support the Family Financial Assistance Program. I am very pleased to be the Honorary Chair. My wife, Heather, and I have been fortunate to have a healthy daughter and two healthy grandchildren. For those families who are not as fortunate, and who turn to HCCF for help, I ask that you join me in making this year' s fund raiser a great success. Purchase your table or donate an item to the Kaleidoscope Boutique today so you can be part of the HCCF team and help them continue their work helping Hawaii's families. Sincerely, Greg McMackin |
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