Upcoming fundraiser to support kids of cancer patients
TOLEDO, Ohio — Kesem is an organization with chapters all over the country. And recently, I spoke with student members of The University of Toledo’s chapter about an upcoming event they have, which is quite beneficial to kids of parents with cancer.
“Our aim is to host a summer camp every summer for children whose parents have cancer. So, really our mission is just to serve children through and beyond a parent’s cancer, so, we fundraise throughout the year, we have different events,” explained Nimi Shah.
Events that include the upcoming ‘Make the Magic’ at Tamaron Country Club.
“Really, this is one of our biggest fundraisers,” she added.
Shah says the goal is to get the greater Toledo community involved. Expect a dinner, cocktail hour, and past campers remarks on why the cause is close to their heart.
Laya Gokula, a freshman at UToledo, on what makes Kesem special.
“It’s a really unique organization because there’s a lot of cancer centers around Toledo that focus on people who do have cancer, but then — to go a step forward — and focus on their children and try to make their experience and their childhood.”
And that includes the memory-making at YMCA Camp Potawotami in Indiana, where you’ll find “Sunshine”, “Dobby,” and “Taco Bell” — the three’s Kesem names.
“It’s whoever you want to be for the week. So, during that week, we refer to them as their Kesem name, so my name’s ‘Sunshine,’” Shah explained.
Each day there’s a set schedule, and Shah says that’s why upon campers’ arrival, they’re introduced to their living quarters, counselors, and each other, as everyone’s emotions are different. Camp registration is open now kesem.my.site.com.
And while the upcoming fundraiser is a big part of supporting their efforts, there’s another opportunity on the horizon, if you’re participating in this year’s Glass City Marathon.
“We’re partnered with them, we’re sponsored by them. And, so, if anyone in the Toledo community is looking for a charity or a nonprofit to run for, Kesem’s always here,” said Viraj Joshi, a director for Kesem at The University of Toledo.
