Welcome Casey Cares 5K first-timer and cancer warrior Rachael!
“This is my first year participating in this event! As I have been incorporating more running into my daily routine, I decided to combine this passion with another and began donating time and money to several local charities that promote health and wellness and provide critical care and services to those in need,” she says.
Rachael adds, “I am running in several events in 2024 for local cancer charities and found Casey Cares, an excellent organization providing a meaningful service to children in need. I am honored to be a part of this year’s event!”
Her running journey began during the pandemic…and a challenging diagnosis.
“In the midst of the pandemic, in 2021, I was diagnosed with cancer. After a long 2-year battle involving several surgeries, multiple chemotherapy regimens, and immunotherapy treatment, I was cancer-free, but not without a tremendous toll on my body, ” Rachael states.
She found that the “treatments left me feeling decimated, and I took up running as a way to rebuild myself healthier, stronger, and happier.”
Rachael discovered that the best part of running is “exploring new paths. I enjoy running in new areas to keep it exciting. Sometimes it’s a trail run where I can enjoy the solitude of nature, and sometimes it’s a run to meet fellow running enthusiasts.”
Whenever she goes for run, Rachael makes sure she brings along her dog, Rocky, a miniature Schnauzer. At almost 10 years old, she says that “He’s a great running companion and keeps my legs moving and pace strong.”
For new runners, she shares her advice in that “everyone has to start somewhere. Don’t let long finish times or great distances overwhelm you. Just start your journey, enjoy the path, and you’ll progress as you keep at it!”
Your registration provides a lasting impact children in Casey Cares programs, many of which are in remission for or battling a form of cancer! Click here to sign up for the Casey Cares 5K before the t-shirt deadline on July 13th.
ummer is in full swing and so are Casey Cares activities! From outdoor adventures to sporting events, our kids are are creating lasting memories and finding joy during this time of year! See below to read towo such adventures!
Pirate Party!
Avast me hearties! It was a beautiful day out on the open seas for our Urban Pirates party with dozens of Casey Cares families! Kids got the chance to spend the morning as a pirate and enjoyed music, games, and lots of pirate-themed festivities including defending the ship in a water battle with a loveable group of scallywags! Thank you Urban Pirates for bringing so much fun to our critically ill kids and their families for 17 years. Our Caring Connections program organizes events like this party that bring together families of critically ill children, allowing them to connect with one another, share their experiences and resources, all while enjoying quality time and creating lasting memories together.
Annapolis Blues!
Thanks to the generosity of the Annapolis Blues FC soccer team, a few of our Casey Cares families were treated to a special pre-game experience before watching the team become Mid-Atlantic Regular Season Champions. Our families had the opportunity to meet and hear player Webb Kosich’s journey, who was diagnosed with aplastic anemia and underwent a bone marrow transplant – with his sister Julia as the donor. The families also got an exclusive tour of the Blues’ locker room and shared their stories and inspiration for fighting with Webb!
We cannot wait to see what’s coming next for our families! Have tickets to a special outing? Tranfer them to a family by emailing our Program Director at [email protected]!
On this special edition of “Every Runner Has A Reason,” we’re honored to spotlight Gina Truesdale and her family – who are deeply important to the Casey Cares community and our programs.
Her son, Abraham “Hammy” Scrivner, was in Casey Cares program during his 4 year treatment for a very rare form of brain cancer. Gina had learned about Casey Cares through “a social worker at John’s Hopkins Hospital.”
“Casey Cares provided uplifting activities that would take our minds off doctors’ appointments and hospital treatments, even if it was just for an hour or two. We met families who were going through similar challenges as we were, and we were able to lean on each other in fun environments,” Gina states.
She continues, “Hammy was very athletic and played soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse. He was also instrumentally inclined, playing the cello, trumpet, and snare drum; while also singing in his school’s chorus. Hammy was the caregiver to two red-eared slider turtles named Rocky and Crush whom he loved and adored.”
After Hammy passed away at age 10, Gina jumped into Casey Cares as a volunteer and created the “Hammy’s Heart” program to fulfill her son’s last wish to help feed others. That program supplies grocery store gift cards to families who need assistance while caring for a critically ill child. Since families are often overwhelmed with so many other financial obligations, this program helps with basic needs when money is stretched to its limits.
Gina started running the Casey Cares 5K in memory of her son and “supporting families that now need Casey Cares” while enjoying “getting a workout in early.”
She shares that if someone is just starting to incorporate running or walking into their lifestyle, “30 minutes of walking a day is all you need.”
When you see Gina and her team, stop and say hi! She will be walking in “a new customized Hammy t-shirt!”
Her family is the reason Casey Cares continues its mission as your registration supports children and their families like Hammy and Gina. When you are at the Maryland Zoo on August 3rd and you see the “Hammy’s Hearts” t-shirts, be sure to say hello! Join Gina and sign up today!
Casey Cares volunteer Ono is returning for her third 5K this year!
Casey Cares has been a part of Ono for years thanks to her brother! “I learned about Casey Cares from my brother. A few years ago his baseball team ran the 5k at the Orioles stadium and I was looking for a non-profit to volunteer for and he suggested Casey Cares! I’ve been volunteering and participating in events since then, and Casey Cares has become a big part of my life!” she states.
Ono began running “after completing my first Spartan race!! I saw how running was great for my mind, body, and spirt! Additionally, I loved the community aspect of Spartan Races! Everyone was so supportive of one another, helping each other accomplish obstacles and make it to the finish line! Ever since then, running/obstacle course races have been a huge part of my life!”
For her, the best part of running or walking is “to support important causes! It’s so nice to see everyone come together through physical activity, in order to support the community! Also, I love the euphoric high that I get from running! Finally, running has made me realize I’m stronger than I think, and I can accomplish the goals I set for myself!”
Ono knows to always be prepared when it comes to running or walking! “I can’t run without my camelbak, snacks, and good music! Also, I can’t run without my favorite people by my side!” she says.
When it comes to running, Ono has learned about herself in terms of mental and physical wellness. She advises anyone looking to begin running to “take it a day at a time, and really listen to your body! Push yourself some, but always pay attention to how you’re feeling and what your normal is!”
She adds, “Not too long ago, I was really sick and thought I wasn’t going to make it. I was in the hospital and I could barely walk due to abdominal pain. I’m feeling a lot better now, and can’t wait to improve even more! Since being sick/still recovering, my goals have changed. I’m not able to run as much or as far distances, and I mostly walk races. Even though things look very different from a few years ago, I’m making the best of my current situation! Getting better and slowly but surely easing back into running has reminded me about the ups and downs of life. Also, it reminds me how important community/support is, and the power of spreading love to everyone because you never know what obstacles people are going through.”
Ono concludes, “One of my biggest passions is bringing people together, and being part of the 5k committee has been such a rewarding experience! I’m super excited to lace up my running shoes & run/walk for this kiddos!”
Ssign up for Casey Cares 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk on August 3rd! T-shirt deadline is July 13th – tap here!
We’re back this year with our 5K mini-series, “Every Runner Has a Reason!” Today, we’re featuring Tony and his motivation for participating in the Casey Cares 5K.
Tony’s running journey began because he “wanted a way to cope after working long hours during the pandemic.” He heard about the Casey Cares Foundation through a longtime friend in Baltimore and thought “a 5K through the Baltimore Zoo would be a fun experience!”
His favorite part of running is that “it’s challenging, and it makes me want to push myself to find out how far I’ll go.” Tony adds that he can’t run without his phone because he “would be lost in the woods without it!”
Tony’s advice for new runners is to remember that “it’s a journey that’s meant to have highs and lows. Enjoy the process and have fun!”
Thank you Tony for supporting the critically ill children in our programs through your 5K participation! Grab your phone like Tony and sign up for Casey Cares 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk on August 3rd! T-shirt deadline is July 13th – tap here!
In the wilds of Cleveland, Ohio, Casey Cares embarked on an unforgettable adventure with “Crits for Casey Cares” – a live Dungeons & Dragons fundraising game that captivated audiences and raised crucial funds to support critically ill children.
Held at the Southern Tier Brewing on June 29th, the event invited guests to witness the epic journey unfold at the brewery with hundreds more tuning into the YouTube livestream. We’re thrilled to announce that donors, sponsors, and attendees helped us raise $14,000 to support Casey Cares programs for critically ill children and their families!
One of the most exciting announcements came in the form of Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, who joined the adventure alongside Casey Cares teen Colton and his brother Cameron. Colton, who was declared cancer-free in December 2023 after battling embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, dove fully into character as a barbarian dwarf, complete with an ale mug, horned-warrior helmet, and fur cape.
The event was orchestrated by Brandon Tharp, an Ohio native and TTRPG content creator known for his captivating storytelling, as well as Johnny Stanton, a former Cleveland Browns fullback and avid Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast. Garrett and Stanton have been playing D&D together since 2020!
Thank you to Erin Martin and Joanna Radov on our Young Professionals Board for helping this event run so well! We extend our immense gratitude to our sponsors and in-kind donors: Western & Southern Life Insurance, Prime Sports, Brewnuts Donuts & Beer, GV Art & Design, and Canton Symphony Orchestra.
The event may be over but you can relive the exciting moments on our YouTube, simply tap here or view below. Don’t forget to check out our appreances on WKYC, News 5 Cleveland, and Cleveland.com!
We reeled in a big one…the 7th Annual Casey Cares Rockfish Tournament that is! The event featured a fun day of fishing, with over 30 boats out on the water trying their luck. The evening brought a celebration at our post-tournament Captain’s Party, where guests enjoyed a fantastic feast of rockfish, an open premium bar, a rousing live auction, and lively music from the Doug Segree Band.
We’re thrilled to announce that donors, sponsors, and attendees helped us raise over $144,000 to support Casey Cares programs for critically ill children and their families.
WUSA9’s Great Day Washington show host Kristen Berset, a longtime supporter of Casey Cares, joined us to emcee our Captain’s Party. The Masters family joined the party to share a firsthand account of their son Maverick’s journey after a leukemia diagnosis and the lasting memories they have made as a family thanks to Casey Cares.
Casey Cares is forever grateful to our board members John and Maggie Sovero along with the rest of the Sovero family for putting on this event!
This year’s Captain’s Challenge proved to be the best one yet as fundraisers competed against other boats to see who could raise the most money for our kids. Congratulations to Justin Burns with COPT who won the Captain’s Challenge, raising more than $26,000 and Ryan Webb with Delmarva Site Development for coming in second place at $20,050! Give a cheer to Tim Goodrich for winning first place in the tournament by hooking the longest fish at 28 1/4 inches and for being awarded our Champion of Children for the event! Shoutout to Casey Cares board member Julia Arfaa for coming in second place with a rockfish length of 26 3/4 inches.
A big thank you to our host, The Inn at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club, for making this event so special, year after year.
We extend our immense gratitude to our Gold Sponsor: COPT and Silver Sponsors: Arfaa Law Group, Boat Lifts Unlimited, BZB Construction, Delmarva Site Development, Live! Casino & Hotel, Shaw Electric, True North Remodeling, and Verint.
Thanks also to our generous in-kind sponsors: 100.7 The Bay, Carter, DowntownDiane.net, Durango Boots, Focus On Women Magazine, Gander’s Car Wash, First Team Staffing, Georgia Boot Company, Huk, Molly’s, Muck Boots, Redline Bowhunting, Ridgely’s Auction Service, Rocky Brands, SKB Fishing, Bay Beach Club, Ridgely’s Auction Service, Persona Triangle Sign Services, Trophyline, White Clover Floral Events, WCBM, and Xtra Tuf.
Happy Father’s Day to all of Casey Cares dads, uncles, stepfathers, grandfathers, and father figures! Fatherhood is a profound journey, one that comes with its own unique set of challenges and responsibilities. But when a child faces medical complexities, the experience takes on an entirely new level of complexity and difficulty. Casey Cares father Jason reflects on fatherhood as the parent of Evan, a heart transplant survivor, this Father’s Day.
“Father’s Day is important to me because it’s another opportunity to make memories and spend time as a family. Being a father of three wonderful children is truly one of life’s greatest gifts. I cherish these moments with my wife helping to guide our children through the many beautiful and tumultuous moments of life.” Jason – Evan, Maddie, and Jack’s father.
In Michigan, Charley celebrated his 9th birthday and is Casey Cares’ 535th birthday this year!
Casey Cares knows that for a critically ill child, each birthday is a special milestone celebrating life. For the children in our programs, it not only marks another year, but it also demonstrates a great achievement. Casey Cares staff and volunteers work hard to send out each of our kids a special birthday package through our Birthday Blast program – we send over 1,000 a year! This simple act of kindness delivers joy and hope to our kids who are undergoing treatment.
Meet Charley
Alissa, Charley’s mother states, “Charley was diagnosed right before he was supposed to start 4-year-old preschool. He had his annual check-up with his doctor where they always do a finger poke blood test. Charley’s blood counts came back very low and he was diagnosed within a day. He had no signs or symptoms that we had noticed – so it was a complete shock to our family.”
Charley’s diagnosis with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. After bravely battling for over a year, Charley reached the maintenance stage in his treatment this past September and he is “handling it all well!” according to Alissa.
The mother of three notes the difficulties of being a parent to a critically ill child. Alissa explains, “The difficulties we have faced include Charley having to take so many medications and the periods where he had to stay at the hospital so much. The support from foundations like Casey Cares, our family and friends, and from our entire community has helped us cope – knowing so many people are rooting for Charley really helped!”
One month after his leukemia diagnosis, Charley’s social worker reccomended him for Casey Cares programs! Since joining, Charley and his older sisters have received pajamas and crafts, Movie & Pizza Night packages, and more.
“Our favorite activity was going to Jurassic Quest with the tickets provided by Casey Cares. It was special to us because it was something we could do as an entire family; Charley and his sisters loved it!” says Caroline.
Alissa appreciated, “the pajamas for Charley and his sisters the most. When Charley was first diagnosed, it was a very hard time for our family. With Charley being in the hospital so much, all of our routines were completely changed. When the package of pajamas and other surprises for a movie night arrived from Casey Cares, the kids were all so excited. It meant so much to us that the foundation not only cares about the child going through the treatments but also their family as well.”
As Charley turns six, he will celebrate by having a party with his family! “Throughout his treatment we have had to miss a lot of family get-togethers, so we are excited to be able to celebrate!” says Alissa.
Want to support more programs and fun activities for critically ill children like Charley? Donate here!
In Ohio, McKinley celebrated her 9th birthday and is Casey Cares’ 560th birthday this year!
Casey Cares knows that for a critically ill child, each birthday is a special milestone celebrating life. For the children in our programs, it not only marks another year, but it also demonstrates a great achievement. Casey Cares staff and volunteers work hard to send out each of our kids a special birthday package through our Birthday Blast program – we send over 1,000 a year! This simple act of kindness delivers joy and hope to our kids who are undergoing treatment.
Home After 218 Days
One month after her seventh birthday, McKinley’s family received devastating news. Caroline, McKinley’s mother states, “McKinley was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on June 27, 2022. McKinley had been tired, pale, and complaining of tummy pain leading up to her diagnosis. We took her to the doctor and had blood work done and they were supposed to call us the next day with results, but we ended up taking her to the ER instead of waiting and the news that no parent ever wants to hear, “your child has cancer,” was given to us.”
She continues, “We were transferred by ambulance to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and her chemotherapy treatment began. She was in remission for 6 months and then had a relapse in October of 2023. She received a bone marrow transplant in January 2024 from a cord blood donation. Her bone marrow biopsy results are all clear and 100% donor cells.”
Currently, McKinley just returned home after spending 218 nights at a Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House and will go for once-a-week checkups!
The mother notes the difficulties of being a parent to a critically ill child. Caroline explains, “During the last 2 years, we have spent a combined 464 nights away from home at the Ronald McDonald House in Cincinnati. When McKinley was first diagnosed, our youngest was 4 months old and still not willing to take a bottle. I remember my Dad being the one to work with him around the clock to finally get him to take a bottle!”
“We also had a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old, so the logistics of trying to care for the other kids while still being at the hospital with McKinley were overwhelming at times! We are so thankful for our family, who took turns driving in from TN, our church family, neighbors, and homeschool community that has loved and cared for us so well during this long and challenging journey. We could not have done this without them!” she continues.
The family credits their faith in playing a big part in going through their daughter’s cancer journey. “Our favorite Bible verse has been Colossians 1:17. There have been so many things out of our control that we have had to pray and trust the Lord and know He would give us the strength each day to walk this journey. Jesus has been our foundation along the ups and downs of this journey.”
Along For the Journey
After joining Casey Cares in 2022, McKinley has received pajamas and crafts, Movie & Pizza Night packages, attended a holiday light show, and more!
“Since we have been limited on actually attending events due to McKinley needing to be careful due to her being immunocompromised, we have loved the movie and pizza nights that we have been able to have at home! It was fun picking out a movie to buy, ordering pizza and getting snacks, all thanks to the gift cards that Casey Cares provided for us!” says Caroline.
She adds, “McKinley remembers getting a fun Lego set from Casey Cares! It’s been a blessing to have the support of such an amazing organization. It makes you feel known and loved during a time that can feel like you are missing so much and just wanting a sense of being a normal kid.”
Caroline has been “very grateful for the support that Casey Cares has provided for us during these past 2 years since McKinley was first diagnosed with leukemia. I especially remember loving the package that was sent with new pajamas for McKinley and her 3 siblings. They all had fun opening the package and seeing their new pajamas and wearing them!”
As McKinley turns nine, she will celebrate by having a virtual party with her cousins. “She’s sending them party favors in the mail [with] Pokemon cards!” Caroline states.
Read more about McKinley in the Wilmington News Journal here! Want to support more programs and fun activities for critically ill children like McKinley? Donate here!
