Happy birthday Amelia!

In PA, Amelia celebrated her 7th birthday and is Casey Cares' 116th 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.

Activities For the Entire Family

Amelia's family is no stranger to Casey Cares!

They were introduced to Casey Cares via the family’s two oldest children, Isabella and Evangelina. Her older sister, Isabella, was the first to join Casey Cares in 2017 after being diagnosed with lymphoma; she is now an alumni patient of the program.

Evangelina then joined Casey Cares in 2019 and has loved going to Jurassic Quest and Monster Jam.

“When I was pregnant with Amelia, Casey Cares gave us a weekend away as a family to Ocean City, Maryland and it was such a blessing. The family time was much appreciated,” states Amelia’s mother Melissa.

After being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, Amelia also came to Casey Cares. So far, Amelia’s favorite activity has been going to a Princess Ball and watching Disney On Ice.

Melissa appreciates how Casey Cares has provided “so much joy to so many families.”

“I love the events when all the families are invited and you can see how many people are being impacted by Casey Cares. We enjoy seeing all the happiness that Casey Cares brings to chronically ill kids,” she continues.

Strains of Critical Illness

Melissa acknowledges the challenges that arise as a parent of three critically ill children.

She states, “Financial strains are a big one! Also, with all the illnesses going around, COVID, RSV and flu, trying to keep your child safe since these illnesses have a greater chance of negative impact on a child with a pre-existing medical condition.”

Diagnosed during a standard heel prick during her birth screening, Amelia knows she has cystic fibrosis but “doesn’t understand the disease or realize that she is chronically ill,” Melissa says.

Melissa adds that since her diagnosis, she has seen Amelia maintain a better activity level in terms of progression.

She adds, “Amelia is caring and loves making new friends.  She is very social and being around people.”

Want to bring a lasting memory to kids like Amelia? Click here!