Summer Pen Pals

By Kayla Woodruff

“You mean there’s other kids like me? Who have mommies with cancer?” 

After 3 years of social distancing, homeschooling, and cancer treatments for my partner, it was no surprise that my daughter's face lit up on that day. It is one that I will always remember. We had just received a package from Bright Spot and it had sparked a conversation with my daughter that has become my driving force: connection. Of all the feelings that have come along with having a parent who has cancer, loneliness is the one that my daughter struggles with the most. It is so incredibly human to want to know that someone else, anyone else, is going through a similar struggle. 

No matter who in your child’s life is battling cancer, it can lead to feelings of alienation for your child. Feelings that may become worse with the loss of routine that summer can bring. We’re hoping to offset these lonely feelings with some connection this summer. Connection with a close-in-age-child who is going through similar struggles (in a fun and low pressure way for parents) that may for some lead to friendship. My wife and I are always looking for new ways to inspire connection in our daughter's life. I hope you’ll join us in creating a space that inspires your child as well. 

In summer 2023, we launched a Summer Pen Pal program that we hoped would encourage connection through letter writing (and letter drawing!). You and your child will receive a box tailored to your child’s age with writing/drawing prompts and the materials to get you started on communicating with another friend going through similar challenges.

Join us in making this summer a connected one!

This program has passed but if you think your children would be interested in this program or something similar in the future, please email: carissa@brightspotnetwork.org