CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH & BLOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
SAVE THE DATES FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS BENEFITING FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER
SUNDAY, JUNE 28
Young Friends Pickleball Tournament at Chicken N Pickle friendsofkids.com/pickleball
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15
Young Friends & Black Sheep Golf Tournament at Forest Park Golf Course friendsofkids.com/blacksheepgolf
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
Art from the Heart® at Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis friendsofkids.com/art
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19
Fashion Show & Boutique at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis friendsofkids.com/fashionshow
STAY UPDATED ON FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER 2026 EVENTS BY VISITING FRIENDSOFKIDS.COM/EVENTS
FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive Board
President Karen Korn
Vice President
Margie Sedlack
Treasurer Joey Venturella
Secretary Maura Garascia
Emeritus*
Susanne Rosenberg
Board Members
Jay Adams
Kris Arneson
Scott Biermann
Jonathan Burke
Katy Carson
Tony Godfrey
Rick Henry
Sharon Huber
Mark Kronemer
Rick Lommel*
Ryan Lommel
Kathy Manganaro*
Ryan McKillips
Joe Reinberg
Tom Russo
Ed Schmid
Dan Tarlas
Ben Turec*
Jill Turec
Susan Venincasa
Jared VonOehsen
*PAST PRESIDENTS
Advisory Board
Dr. Robert Bergamini
Dr. Gordon Gale
Dr. Rob Hanson
Marie Turner, MSN, RN, CPNP
Honorary Board
Allen Brockman*
Gene Deutsch
Molly Henry*
Dan McLaughlin
Tom O’Neal
Guy Phillips
Gary Saettele
YOUNG FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER JUNIOR BOARD
Executive Committee
President Korey Gauvain
Internal Vice President Danielle Hoffmeister
External Vice President Corrie Opolka
Treasurer Austin Malley
Secretary Emily Wurdack
Emeritus*
Natalie Cochran
FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER STAFF
Executive Director
Brandy Bimslager
Finance Manager
Diane Voigt
Program Coordinator Morgyn Johnson
Program Facilitator
Mara Simpson
Events & Community Outreach Coordinator
Amanda JohnstonBerkemper
Volunteer Coordinator Cody Yonis
Office Administrator Jenny Amparán
Marketing Manager Angela Hutchings
Friends
of Kids with Cancer is devoted to enriching the daily lives of children diagnosed with cancer and blood-related diseases by offering programs to help families think, feel, and smile.
Our mission is to be an advocate for these special kids and provide them and their families with the educational, emotional, and recreational support needed as a result of the long hours of chemotherapy, illness, and isolation.
314.275.7440 • friendsofkids.org 16 Sunnen Drive Suite 161 • St. Louis, MO • 63143
@Friends_of_Kids Friends of Kids with Cancer
WELCOME TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, TOM FOGERTY
For 11 years, Tom Fogerty has led major fundraising efforts and facilitated the hosting of Friends of Kids with Cancer’s Art from the Heart® auction at Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis as General Manager.
Through his dedication to cultivating a strong, long-tenured team culture and through relationship building, Tom and his team have raised thousands of dollars each year at this fundraiser, benefiting our art therapy programs.
With 33 years of experience in the automotive industry, including 24 years with the Mungenast
Automotive Family, Tom brings deep expertise in leadership, financial management, marketing, sales, and relationship building.
In his free time, Tom enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including pheasant hunting, bass fishing, water sports, motorcycling, riding UTVs, and spending time with his family.
With deep appreciation, we welcome Tom Fogerty to Friends of Kids with Cancer’s Board of Directors!
“My wife and I have been looking for meaningful ways to become more involved in our community and give back. From the moment we attended our first Art From The Heart event, I knew we had found exactly what we were searching for. Friends of Kids with Cancer is truly a special organization, and I am incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to join the Board of Directors.”
Mara Simpson brings a passion for supporting children and families, grounded in her diverse background in child development, education, and family engagement.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development, with an emphasis in Child Life, from Missouri State University, where she was also a dedicated four-year field hockey student-athlete.
MARA JOINS THE TEAM AS PROGRAM FACILITATOR
As Program Facilitator, Mara manages programs provided inside the hospital settings. In her role, she builds and maintains relationships with patients and families, connects families with contracted program providers offered outside of the hospital setting, and many other tasks necessary for program effectiveness.
Outside of work, Mara enjoys spending time with her husband and three children and remains active in her community by coaching field hockey locally.
Mara holds a special passion for the mission of Friends of Kids with Cancer. Her connection to this work is deeply personal, as her niece is a leukemia survivor. This experience continues to inspire her commitment to supporting children and families facing cancer with compassion, understanding, and advocacy.
ORGANIZATION HIGHLIGHTS
CODY JOINS THE TEAM AS VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Cody Yonis has had a variety of experiences throughout his career, including working as an American Ninja Warrior coach, outdoor educator, and robotics technician.
After spending several years traveling around the country and exploring new places, Cody realized he wanted to be part of something that made a difference in people’s lives. While he was grateful for the adventures and opportunities along the way, he felt drawn toward work that allowed him to give back and support others in a more meaningful way.
Joining Friends gave Cody the chance to combine his passion for helping people with a mission he deeply believes in.
As Volunteer Coordinator, Cody manages all volunteerism across the organization, building and maintaining relationships with new and long-standing volunteers, and focuses on recruitment, retention, and recognition for this essential part of the organization’s successes.
Outside of work, Cody enjoys outdoor adventures and spending time with his partner and his dog.
Amanda Johnston-Burkemper came to a career in non-profit through her service on multiple boards over many years. After a long career in the corporate world, she felt a calling to use her talents planning events and fundraising to make a difference in the lives of children.
A native to the St. Louis area, Amanda has spent years cultivating a network rooted in trust,
AMANDA JOINS THE TEAM AS EVENTS
& COMMUNITY
OUTREACH
COORDINATOR
generosity, and shared purpose. She has a passion for connecting people to causes that matter, aligning hearts with missions. For her, networking isn’t transactional; it is transformational.
As the Events and Community Outreach Coordinator, Amanda organizes and plans all major fundraiser events with committees and educates and supports the community to get involved with the organization.
Amanda is married with a young daughter. She and her daughter are both dedicated members of the Choral Society of St. Charles County. On a couple of weekends every year, you will find them on the stage.
Spotlight On Bob Jones
“It’s a great feeling knowing my time is well spent. I love to volunteer as my ‘thank you’ for our son’s remission.”
When Bob Jones’ son was in treatment at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, he witnessed Friends of Kids with Cancer’s mission to make the 16 year-old’s days a little brighter.
Soon after, Bob became a volunteer, which he says is satisfying being able to give back to an organization that helps families like his.
“It’s a great feeling knowing my time is well spent,” he exclaimed.
His favorite events in which to volunteer are Walk with a Friend, Trivia Night, and our patient family Winter Wonderland holiday party. (See his picture with Santa from the 2025 event.)
Bob looks forward to continuing his volunteer work with Friends he approaches retirement. Unless, of course, he wins the lottery and can retire sooner, he says.
In addition to volunteering, you may catch
selling
tickets at your next Cardinals
“I love to volunteer as my ‘thank you’ for our son’s remission,” he added.
Learn more about volunteering at friendsofkids.com/volunteer
Bob has been in banking for over 25 years and is married to his wife of over 29 years. Bob enjoys riding his bicycle, grilling, and watching football.
His son is a youth hockey coach and they have an affection for youth and Blues hockey.
him
50/50
game.
A BEAUTIFUL MORNING TOGETHER TO REMEMBER AND CELEBRATE
Each year, so many sincere smiles and touched hearts show up to Walk with a Friend, and this year’s event felt even more overflowing with support than in recent years.
Over 1,500 participants registered to attend the event or support from their homes, the most registrants since 2017. This event raised nearly $60,000 thanks to registrations, raffles, team and personal fundraisers, sponsorships, and generous in-kind donations.
So many of our oldest friends were seen celebrating and walking as teams. Teams like Caleb vs Cancer, Cole’s Crew, Emma’s Animals, Lauren’s F.riends A.nd R.elatives T.ogether, Mackenzie’s Lucky Charms, Mario’s Army, Midwest Elevator, Road Runners, Team Emily and Nick, and so many more.
Throughout the years, some things have changed, like the everupdating weather report, adding DJ music, adding a trailer platform stage, and new food trucks.
So much enjoyment returns year after year, like Spread Ari’s Light, who
provided glitter tattoos, crowns, and capes adorned our superheroes and queens, and who showcased a classic car for photo opportunities. Santa Needs Help handed out popcorn, snow cones, and pretzels in addition to donated breakfast snacks. Hart of the City Photo Booth provided fun, digital keepsake photos.
DJ Shawn, patient dad and owner of Eclipse DJs STL, kept us moving and grooving between announcements. Donny Fandango from 106.5 The ARCH cheered on runners as they crossed the finish line and presented first, second, and third place awards to 10K and 5K runners.
Thanks to Big Tex Trailer World, our award winners received their medals and winnings on a stage, and the trailer showcased banners, one featuring the faces of all those we honored that day.
Our vendors, Mario’s Army, Be Brave Grace, and Young Friends of Kids with Cancer, sold goods for donation, including vintage race shirts and bedazzled wares.
Food trucks helped caffeinate and rejuvenate with tasty offerings from Mr. Papas 2 Go, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee, and Too Sweetz Dessert.
Maryland Heights Fire and EMS sounded the horn to start the race and displayed a gigantic American flag from their fire truck ladder, which made for a patriotic backdrop to the race start.
Special friends gave hugs and silly misadventures for big smiles, like St. Louis Blues Louie, St. Louis Cardinals Fredbird, Star Wars characters from The 501st Legion & The Rebel Legion, and Princesses Jasmine, Belle, Cinderella, and Tiana from Dreamtime Princesses.
Volunteers set up, kept the event going, and made for an easy take-down by facilitating all the lawn games and prizes (no child left empty-handed), watching bounce houses, handing out water on the run path, registration, and more.
All these amazing supporters, businesses, and caring individuals came together to honor and remember children who battle cancer — whether that meant
BIG FUNDS & FEELINGS AT GOLF TOURNAMENT DESPITE POOR WEATHER
Despite a day full of rain and lightning, over 200 supporters came to Whitmoor golf course to participate in Friends of Kids with Cancer’s Golf Tournament & Auction to raise funds for programs to help children facing cancer in St. Louis.
To get the morning started, Lukas, a 20-year-old Mizzou student, spoke to the crowd of eager golfers about his optimism in the face of a short life expectancy after the diagnosis of Stage 4 brain cancer. He shared inspiring words about how it felt to pass the date by which doctors predicted he would succumb to his illness. Yet, he was standing that day, grateful for every moment.
“They gave me 12 months. Everything that I wanted to be when I grew up was thrown in the trash. All my dreams of being an aeronautical engineer working on spaceships was out of view. I am happy to say that it has been over a year since I’ve had this cancer, and I am doing unbelievably well,” Lukas said.
“Cancer sucks. We all know that. But I’ve gotten so many opportunities. Having intention in your day has very much helped me through my day. It was beautiful the amount of love and support Friends of Kids with Cancer has given me. I am very blessed to be loved by this organization.”
After they wiped away a few tears, golfers went out on the course to play three holes before getting called back due to lightning. Friends of Kids’ team of staff, committee members, and volunteers pivoted seamlessly to provide enjoyable beverages, lunch, cigar purchases, and a photo booth to golfers while setting up the evening portion of the day early in the clubhouse.
Guests dried off indoors and engaged in a different kind of dinner program than in recent years. Dr. Robin Hanson, Hematologist and Oncologist for Mercy Cardinals Kids, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Center, kicked off the program to speak about the impact Friends of Kids with Cancer has on the patients he treats every day.
Dr. Hanson, often referred to as Dr. Rob, explained the typical cancer treatment hardships experienced by children battling the disease— painful shots, hair loss, feeling sick, among so much more. Then, he said something unexpected.
“I’m going to tell you that the kid that gets the news they’re coming to the cancer center today, more often than not, it’s going to put a smile on their face.
“Because, believe it or not, the majority of my patients can’t wait for the days that they get to come to the cancer center,”
Dr. Rob continued.
“There’s only one reason for that, and that’s because of everything that this organization does for them throughout the course of their treatment, from the day they’re diagnosed to the day they finish and ring the bell, and for years afterwards.
“Everything they go through, Friends of Kids with Cancer is walking alongside them, supporting them, making that whole experience not just something
that’s tolerable, but for many of them is actually kind of fun.”
After a huge round of applause, guests got an exclusive look at a video showcasing an amazing surprise by St. Louis Blues Center, and Golf Tournament honorary chair, Robert Thomas, who played minigolf with four patients at a beautiful recreational outing.
After some laughter and cheer, three special guests arrived to further inspire the crowd while sharing ways Friends of Kids has impacted them.
“It would be unbearable without Friends of Kids with Cancer. They give us so many opportunities to make us feel so special, even though we’re going through some hard times,” explained Sophie, a 16-yearold in treatment.
Alongside her were Kennedy (7), and Lyncoln (6).
“My favorite toy from the clinic is probably all the Barbie stuff that I get. I like Friends of Kids with Cancer because all the people here are really nice,” Kennedy told the audience.
Lyncoln’s birthday was the day of the event and the group of over 200 golfers sang “Happy Birthday” to her. She said she likes the car toys from the Toy Closet and making slime with Morgyn at the hospital. “I love all the kids with cancer,” she said to the crowd.
Kennedy asked who would raise their paddle to donate $10,000. Amazingly, two individuals raised their paddles to donate this significant amount.
Luxurious and exciting items and experiences were put up for bid in the Live Auction. And, as the day progressed, raffles and silent auction items were being sold and bid on.
Over the past 28 years, this event has contributed, with the help of many loyal sponsors and
supporters, nearly $5 million to support Friends of Kids with Cancer. And, this year, the event raised a total of $485,796, an incredible amount considering the weather.
The unwavering support from each new and returning sponsor forms the backbone of this annual event, and it is because of this generosity that the tournament can make such a significant financial impact.
Friends of Kids was especially grateful to welcome the largest group of corporate sponsors in the tournament’s history. The commitments of companies and individuals have reached new heights, with many returning sponsors choosing to increase their sponsorship levels for 2026.
This remarkable show of dedication demonstrates not only community support for Friends’ cause but also the desire to maximize the benefit provided to children and families facing cancer.
A huge thank you to sponsors, donors, volunteers, and committees for the ongoing partnership, generosity, and belief in the mission to help kids with cancer be kids. ▪
STAR-STUDDED TRIVIA RAISES $45K
Friends of Kids with Cancer’s 28th annual Trivia Night sold out once again, attended by a variety of people, including patient families, treatment center partners, old friends, and newcomers.
Allie Gordon and Ken Cooley coemceed the night, Allie inspired by the Moira Rose character from TV’s Schitt’s Creek, and Ken dressed in Ralphie’s bunny suit from the movie A Christmas Story.
Popular games returned like Balloon Pop, Heads or Tails, Lucky Card, and the virtual relay race game, this time as trolls.
Guests arrived on the red carpet dressed to impress in their Hollywood garb, or as their favorite characters in movies, television, and theatre. One table, spearheaded by the family of a patient, dressed all as Jurassic Park characters – a couple of dinosaurs, the charismatic Jeff Goldblum scientist, and even as the nefarious Dennis Nedry character in a rain jacket.
The guest who won Best Dressed came dressed in all-white glam as Marilyn Monroe.
This event raised over $45,000 from registration, games, raffles, and donations, the proceeds of which go directly to Friends of Kids with Cancer, providing essential funds for kids, teens, and their families to help cope with the effects of a pediatric cancer diagnosis.
SWANK GIVES BACK
Swank Motion Pictures, Inc. chose Friends of Kids with Cancer as the recipient of their give-back campaign for the summer of 2026.
To kick off their summer of impact, Swank invited Friends of Kids to attend their company-wide luncheon, where Brandy Bimslager, Executive Director of Friends, and Bell, a cancer survivor, spoke to inspire their teams.
“This event is all about coming together as a team and reconnecting with the purpose behind giving back. Moments like this set the tone for what’s ahead. They remind us that even small actions can make a meaningful difference and that when we show up together, that impact grows even stronger,” Swank wrote on a recent LinkedIn post.
For their first company fundraiser, Swank’s employees elected to play
in the Cornhole Tournament for a day full of camaraderie, energy, and inspiration.
Additionally, the company commits to volunteering for Friends on a monthly basis during their Swank Gives Back summer. Recently, employees put together craft kits for patients in hospitals, and organized toy donations for the Toy Closet.
“I recently spent the morning volunteering with Friends of Kids with Cancer through our Swank Gives Back summer volunteer program,” said Anna Hebrank on LinkedIn about her experience.
“We sorted donations from a toy drive that will stock Toy Closets at local treatment centers in the St. Louis area. Here’s what stuck with me most. Every child who comes in for treatment gets to choose
something from that closet. A small moment of control. Comfort. Normalcy. Joy.”
Swank is the world’s largest non-theatrical distributor of motion pictures for public performance and the acknowledged leader in the field.
Swank Motion Pictures provides both public performance licensing rights and licensed movies to numerous non-theatrical markets, including worldwide cruise lines, U.S. colleges and universities, K-12 public schools and libraries, American civilian and military hospitals, motor coaches, Amtrak trains, correctional facilities and other markets such as parks, art museums, and businesses.
Based in St. Louis, Swank also maintains a sales office in Paris, France.
Learn More at www.swank.com
Crossroads Elementary Remembers Hannah with 11th Annual Art Supply Drive
Since 2015, Crossroads Elementary has organized an art supply drive in place of Valentine’s Day parties, in memory of Hannah, a student of the school and child of a teacher.
The service project started out as just one grade level, and has expanded to three more, located through the same building doors through which Hannah walked, and where her mother, Mary Quirk, still works today.
“Since Hannah was an important part of our school, we decided to partner with an organization that brought her so much joy,” said Mary Quirk, organizer, and mother to Hannah.
First, in 2014, the school created fleece tie-blankets and donated them to the organization. Then, from 2015 on, they recognized Hannah’s joy for art therapy, and transitioned to an art supply drive.
“Hannah received so much joy from the art therapy program when she was receiving treatments, and looked forward to the crafts she made while at Cardinal Glennon,” Mary said.
Wanting to support our art therapy program, each year, they collect art supplies and craft activities.
Mary says this year has been the biggest collection to date, with so many quality items. We estimate
that over $3,000 worth of supplies were donated in this drive.
Thank you, Mary, and everyone at Crossroads Elementary for keeping Hannah in your hearts and for helping inspire hundreds of kids with your donations.
Learn more about volunteering at friendsofkids.com/volunteer
SPOTLIGHT ON EMOTIONAL PROGRAMS: ART THERAPY
For over 25 years, art therapy has been a core therapeutic program provided by Friends of Kids with Cancer to children diagnosed with cancer or blood-related diseases in St. Louis. It’s one of the more wellknown programs offered, thanks to the fundraiser Art from the Heart, which showcases and auctions artwork created by patients with art therapists.
“Art is something to do while I am at the hospital; when I am doing art, I feel calm and happy.”
— Kristian, 14, patient, 2025 Art from the Heart artist
Our supporters may recognize the beautiful, fun, and often thoughtful artwork, but may not understand what art therapy is and exactly how it helps kids and families as they move through their cancer journey.
“Art Therapy in its simplest form is the intersection of mental health counseling and art making beautifully blended together,” explains Daphne Dierkes, art therapist for Siteman Kids Cancer Center at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
“At the core of each session lies choice, control, play, and communication,” she explained.
WHAT THEY NEED
Pediatric cancer research tells us these kids need three key psychosocial elements: a sense of control during uncertain times, support to meet developmental milestones, and positive, consistent adults in their lives.
Among so many families, we hear it over and over again: kids feel a huge loss of autonomy over their bodies when diagnosed. Their lives are taken over by scary appointments, painful treatments, and the effects those treatments have on their bodies.
Hair loss, sores, loss of energy, and being uprooted from their typical school and home lives. These kids crave the ability to choose something for themselves.
Teens and young adult patients often speak about having a necessary breakdown and rebuilding of who they are as people. Going through cancer treatment leads to forging a new path for patients of all ages to rebuild themselves. No one is the same after cancer.
Kids want to have hope that they can integrate back into their precancer lives by attending school and not feeling left behind by their peers and the world.
WHAT ART THERAPY PROVIDES
Art therapists give kids the opportunity for control by choosing materials, creating something with those materials, and exploring a personal connection with a positive adult by talking throughout their session.
Research has shown that the more a patient feels like they have a role in their health plan, the better the health results. So, when a child can choose their own art materials, what and how they want to create, it can feel empowering and have an impact on their health.
“When I was in the hospital, I loved learning to play the ukulele. Both art and music helped keep me distracted when I was scared or nervous.”
— Cally, 9, patient, 2025 Art from the Heart artist
The children, teens, or young adults we serve sometimes cannot find the words to describe or vocalize their experiences because they don’t have enough life experience to process this drastic change in their lives. Through the creative process of art therapy, connections are created, leading to mental processing of these stresses and improving their quality of life.
Patients are deeply impacted by cancer. It’s a transformational experience for patients, and they need guidance to grow, learn, and rebuild, starting at the diagnosis. Art therapy helps guide them through this process of breakdown and rebuilding of who they have known themselves to be.
“I especially love art therapy because it allows me to find joy and positivity, even through the hardest parts of treatment.”
— Kaitlyn, patient, 2026 Art from the Heart artist.
Sometimes, there’s a specific worry a child may have that is affecting them emotionally. The art therapist will help put that worry down in visual form, creating a physical form of how “big” the feeling is. They use the artwork to talk and explore, looking at the worry differently, exploring how it feels, and working through what might be overlooked because of the all-consuming anxiety.
Sometimes, art therapy looks simpler, like focusing on the present moment with art materials and practicing sensory exploration, relaxation, and distraction.
“One thing people may not realize is the amount of sitting and the boredom that comes with it. A child starts a procedure and then will be sitting for hours waiting for it to be completed. Their supportive adults are often exhausted by whole experience as well,” explains Chris Liljedahl, art therapist for The Costas Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
“While the virtual world through tablets and cell phones can be helpful to pass the time, there are diminishing returns the longer
they are used. They are great for entertaining , distracting, and numbing. They are not as strong in developing meaning, social connections, cognitive development, and resilience. Art and play are the natural language of children to build meaning, connections, thinking skills, and resilience,” he explains.
HOW FRIENDS OF KIDS HELPS
Friends of Kids with Cancer provides funding for or directly hires one art therapist in each hospital hematology and oncology treatment center: Mercy Cardinals Kids, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Center, Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, and The Costas Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
On-site art therapy services are referred to childhood cancer patients, their siblings, and parents by our partners at these treatment centers at no cost to the family.
In 2025, nearly 2,000 art therapy sessions took place in treatment centers to help patients, siblings, and caretakers navigate through this experience.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT
Art therapy is supported by our Art from the Heart® fundraiser, which began as an art therapy showcase in 2010. This September, we celebrate the 17th Annual Art from the Heart®, where one hundred percent of proceeds from the event go to providing art therapy in St. Louis treatment centers.
“Art from the Heart is a poignant opportunity to witness their strength, courage, and resilience through their artwork, and how the experience celebrates and honors these young patients during their journey with cancer,” explains Natasha Westrich Hanson, art therapist for Mercy Cardinals Kids, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Center.
Learn more about getting involved by attending, donating, or volunteering at www.friendsofkids.com/art ▪
“Art from the Heart, under the guidance of my art therapist, helped me find a way to express the invisible burden of survivorship including the scan anxiety, isolation, and the quiet fear that can remain even after treatment ends.
The program acknowledged my hardships and acted as a tight warm hug.”
— Sargun, AYA, 2025 Art from the Heart artist.
Meet Our Art Therapists
Natasha is the Hematology and Oncology Art Therapist at Mercy Cardinals Kids, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Center.
Natasha began the art therapy program with Friends of Kids with Cancer in 1998, spearheaded Art from the Heart® in 2010, is a part of the multidisciplinary team that founded the Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program at Mercy and has been coleading the Adolescent Young Adult monthly support group since 2017.
She feels blessed to be able to help cancer patients through their journey, knowing that art therapy is a powerful means of expression, connection, and healing.
When not at work, you can find Natasha playing with a women’s drumming circle called Jabula, gardening, spending time with her husband, two children, and two cats, and Tango dancing.
Daphne is an art therapist who works with cancer patients at Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Her goal is to provide a healing space and opportunity for the kids to explore their feelings and empower them to embrace the importance of play and creativity during their treatment process.
The art therapy program at St. Louis Children’s Hospital is made possible through a grant from Friends of Kids with Cancer.
In her free time, Daphne enjoys spending time with her husband and kids, and working on her own art.
Chris Liljedahl, LCPC, ATR-BC®
Chris is the Hematology and Oncology Art Therapist at The Costas Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
Chris practices recovery-focused art therapy, which uses art materials and the creative process to promote wellness and growth. Recovery focuses on collaborating with others to connect to their emotional experiences, values, aspirations, passions, interests, and strengths to promote a sense of accomplishment, growth, health, resilience, and meaning.
Chris enjoys time with his family, making art, playing and listening to music, carpentry, reading, movies, and cooking.
SOPHIE’S MEMORY MAKER:
A NIGHT ON THE TOWN
Sophie, a 16-year-old in treatment, wanted to get her mind off her diagnosis and spend some time with her best friends. Friends of Kids obliged with a Memory Maker, providing tickets, gift cards, and lodging at the places of Sophie’s choosing for her and her three friends.
First, the group went to Zia’s on The Hill for a delicious Italian meal. Then, they attended The Phantom of the Opera at The Fabulous Fox Theatre. Afterwards, Sophie got a massive hot cocoa at The Curtain Call Lounge.
The group enjoyed some relaxation during their girls’ night at a nice hotel in downtown St. Louis.
“We are sending you the biggest thank you for gifting Sophie the best memory weekend!
Sophie wanted a night out in St. Louis with her besties & you delivered!
Sophie and her best friends enjoyed dinner at Zia’s, great seats at The Fox for The Phantom of the Opera, and the coolest hotel room at Live! by Loews!
We can’t thank you enough for taking her mind off treatment, spoiling her, and making her wish come true. We appreciate everyone at FOK so much! “
— The Family of Sophie
Our Memory Maker program provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to a patient on active treatment, often at a time when a child is struggling. This is a great program offered to families who may have already received a “wish” from another organization and continue to need support.
Moms Enjoy a Charming Sunday
Together at Collections by Joya
On a Sunday in May, 25 moms gathered at Collections by Joya in Webster Groves for some time away from the family and among fellow caregivers who understand.
Collections by Joya’s charm bar offered hundreds of charm options to add to a necklace or bracelet. Thanks to the business’ generosity and Friends of Kids, moms took home a chain placed with multiple charms, meticulously chosen.
This afternoon was all about moms who often put everything aside for their child’s healthcare, and who are well-deserving of a little enjoyment away from the worries a cancer diagnosis can bring.
Some parents chose to showcase the initials of their kids or other charms in honor of their families. Others chose to treat this as a self-care opportunity and created something stylish just for them.
Delicious charcuterie bites, desserts, and beverages were available to nosh and enjoy over conversation.
Each guest took away a charm bracelet or necklace, and a gift bag from Friends of Kids with a candle and a coffee gift card.
Ways to Support Local Kids and Families
JINGLE IN JULY: HOST A SUMMER TOY DRIVE
The “most wonderful time of the year” in December inspires an influx of toy drives, and by summertime, our toy inventory has dwindled.
Selecting a toy out of the Friends of Kids Toy Closet can improve a child’s whole day — helping motivate them to get through the tough parts and giving parents hope for a smile.
#1 Choose When You’ll Collect Toys
Collect toys and donations as an “entrance fee” at your summer celebration. Integrate a toy drive into your July 4 BBQ or pool party. Ask for toys in place of birthday gifts.
#2 Make or Get a Toy Bin
Making a toy bin is a great way to get kids involved in the toy drive. Get a large box, wrap it in decorated paper or other flashy and fun decorations. Add our flyer so people know where their donations are going.
Friends has a selection of toy barrels we can lend you. Just let us know ahead of time, and you can pick one up at our office.
#3 Promote Your Toy Drive
Tell your party guests about the toy drive so they can shop. Tell your social media followers you’re collecting toys. You may inspire them to do their own toy drive, or to participate in yours!
#4 Have fun!
We all remember the toys from our childhood. Looking through the collected toys can be a fun way to remember your favorite toys as a kid.
Collecting toys should be fun! Post videos and photos on your social media of your toy drive to inspire others to get involved.
#5 Schedule Your Toy Drop Off or Pick up
Call the Friends of Kids with Cancer office to let us know when you’ll be dropping off. We may be able to arrange a pick-up, thanks to our wonderful volunteers.
#6 Say Thanks
Send thank-you letters, notes, or emails to everyone who donated. Share photos with supporters and let them know how many total toys were donated.
Tag Friends of Kids with Cancer in your posts, and we’ll celebrate you by sharing on our feed.
Friends of Kids with Cancer sends toys to our local treatment centers weekly and uses toys for many different programs. Toys are often given in clinics or to children inpatient as a recreational distraction, for a mood boost, special celebration, or when children are undergoing radiation. Radiation patients receive a “prize” for every day of treatment they complete.
Find our toy drive wish list and printable flyer at friendsofkids.com/wishlist
Friends of Kids accepts tickets (even last-minute invites) to local events like baseball, soccer, hockey games, theatre tickets, and any other events for children or adults.
Can’t use your season tickets? Donate them!
Friends accepts tickets to events and outings and will contact patient families to put your tickets to good use, helping families form lasting memories together and getting their minds off their hardships.
JOIN A COMMITTEE TO PLAN EVENTS
Support Friends by being a part of our successful (and fun) fundraising events. Event committees help plan logistics, decorating, gather sponsorships and donations, make raffle and auction baskets, and more! Be behind-the-scenes at our events, big and small.
Join the planning committee for our five major fundraisers:
• Trivia Night
• Walk with a Friend
• Golf Committee
• Art from the Heart®
• Fashion Show
Do you want to be where the action is?
Volunteer at an event! From registering guests, serving food, set up and clean up, and facilitating games, we have the right set of tasks for your skills. We need volunteers for fundraising events, patient events, and community events.
Join the Volunteer Email List. No commitment required.
HONORARY & MEMORIAL DONATIONS
BOLD NAMES ARE THOSE BEING HONORED OR MEMORIALIZED.
Honor Donations
January–April 2026
All the AYA Patients at Mercy St. Louis
The Moore Family
Bonnie Bannister
Katharine Spiegel
Beckham Bass
Janet Bass
Wes Blechle
Mary Blechle
Charlotte Bleigh
BH Semler Family Fund
Ryder Boles
Dexter School District R-11
Anna Buehrig
Buehrig / Kupsky Family
Matt Cartmell
Diane and Damon Cartmell
Karson Dentinger
Shanahan Family Foundation
Shannon Duffy
Donald DeNatale
Ben Figge
Mary Blechle
Rob and Natasha Hanson
JoDe Estes & Charles Bowers
Janet and Ben Gleason
Jennifer Jenkins
Bosco and Priscilla Westrich
Patti Hubbell
Donna and Jim Biederman
Aggie Jenkins
Jay Carney
Keren and Ariel Milo
Sarah and Charley Staab
Chris Kew
Robert Heideman
Phoenix Lacavich
Linda Wade, Terry, Michelle and Ruth
Lena LaFata
Beverly LaFata
Ann Monroe
Bryce Lich
Brandon and Crystal Kniest
Pond Elementary
Liezel Melantic
Jordan Wilia
Jaxon Menner
Barbara Menner
Jude Morgan
Thomas Davis
Ellen Morstein
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
David Lee Murphy
Marie and Raymond Kurczynski
Auggie Powers
Cathy Stewart
Emma Pullam
Mattingly’s
Kenn and Jane Ritchey
Larry and Linda Martin
Carrie Roider
Toni Gass
Jeff Rose
Don Rose
Dylan Rowe
Robert Heideman
Melissa Schmittgens
Bill and Mary Schmittgens
Claire Shipman and Kati Jo Spisak
Keren and Ariel Milo
Evan Ryan
Sarah and Charley Staab
Kennedy Smith
Daniel Ginsburg
Rhonda Ginsburg
Alex Venardos
Melissa Venardos
Ryan Williams
Assumption School / Church
Goldie Wirth
William Barnes
Kiwanis Club of Gravois
Memorial Donations
January–April 2026
Donna Armstrong
Linda Wade, Terry, Michelle and Ruth
Adam Behrhorst
Lana Juedemann
Robert Behrmann
Dave and Sue Domian
Brian P. Biederman
Steve and Linda Biederman
Trent Boston
The Bakula Family
Daniel and Cindy Beeler
Paul and Marsha Beeler
Holly Boston
Larry and Marilyn Boston
Alicia Braun
Kendra and Dale Brockamp
Ronald and Karen Childs
Blake and Brenda Cloyd
The Confluent AMER Sales Team
Josh Edmondson
Judie Egelhoff
Mark and Debra Forbes
Robert and Elizabeth Fuchs
Robert and Penny Grundy
Diane Haare and David Pickel
William and Beverly Held
Linda Hocking
David Kedney
Kitchell Memorial Library
Susan Langen
Dave and Bea Leonard
Donna and Steve Lounsberry
Tom and Deb Meredith
Mark Miesner
William and Marilyn Murphy
Albert and Brenda Oberle
Kevin and Patricia Olson
Emily Sampl
Kevin and Laurie Schultz
Barbara Spires
Timi’s Tours
Patricia Wernsing
Gay and John Wilhour
WingHaven Country Club
Agnes Brinker
Curt and Lynn Alferman
Herbert and Madonna Alferman
Megan Alferman
Bank of Washington
Eugene and Ruth Brinker
Michael and Gloria Brinker
Robert and Dorothy Brinker
Michael and Mary Ann Carey
Lana Dinan
Robert and Mary Dobsch
Brian and Barbara Eckelkamp
Kirby and Michelle Frost
Diana Hall
Willard and Judith Halmich
Timothy and Luann Haberberger
Stephen Holzem
Edward and Karen Jasper
Marcellus Jasper Family
Mark and Mardie Jasper
Sime and Pamela Kancijanic
Gary and Sandra Lucy
Travis and Jennifer Molitor
Philip and Danyee Mundwiller
George and Judy Parmentier
Dale and Melissa Piontek
Bette Ruether
Wayne and Frances Sahm
Bruce and Kimberly Siem
Lenward and Joyce Simons
Judith Struckhoff
David and Lucille Tobben
Gary and Karen Unnerstall
Mark and Joan Unnerstall
Weber Brothers Construction
Elaine Wingbermuehle
Kaye and Wesley Wissmann
Leonard Brinker
Mary Lee and David Aholt
Marvin and Laura Beumer
Agnes Brinker
Eugene and Ruth Brinker
Michael and Monica Buel
Michael and Mary Ann Carey
Richard and Sharon Coates
Richard and Dawn Deppe
Brian and Barbara Eckelkamp
Willard and Judy Halmich
Stephen Holzem
Marcellus Jasper Family
Mark and Mardie Jasper
Sime and Pamela Kancijanic
Dan and Rose Mantle
Leona Pauk
Chris and Christine Piontek
Dale and Melissa Piontek
Wayne and Frances Sahm
Lenward and Joyce Simons
Ann Struckhoff
Donald Struckhoff
Judith Struckhoff
David and Lucille Tobben
Gary and Karen Unnerstall
Mark and Joan Unnerstall
Charles and Sharon Voss
Elaine Wingbermuehle
Kate Buschmann
Michael and Dana Barrett
Bridget Buschmann
Richard and Rhonda Cramsey
Rose Mary Dieckhaus
Sam and Mary Eleanor Farrell
Rose Monzyk
Ruth Tofle
Charles and Sharon Voss
Bonnie Yust
Keith Callahan
Sharon, Katie, Jeff & Family
Angie Costello
The Boyd Family
Scarlett Dooley
The Testa Family
Harold Dulworth
James and Tamber Alsop
Robert and Dena Grus
Georgia Ritter
Joyce Erb
Toni Gass
Terry & Karen Matzenbacher, David & Tara,
Alexis, Tim & Rhett, Cindy Asinger
Jake Franzel
Dee and Steven Mintz
Lawrence Wang
Dr. Karen M. Gauvain
Dave Gauvain
Debbie Gilbert
Harold and Deborah Douglas
Bernadette Godfrey
Dave Sinclair Buick GMC
Mary and Michael Detwiler
Uncle James and Aunt Mary Sinclair
Amber Hardester
Educators for a Better Tomorrow
Karen and Gary Hardester
Ellen Henry
Molly and Rick Henry
Kathy Manganaro
John Henry
Molly and Rick Henry
Kathy Manganaro
Carter Hinkle
Melinda Smith
Mick Hogan
Ava Steinlage & Kate Hogan
Aaron Hubbell
Donna and Jim Biederman
Steve Hubbell
Bill and Paula Ahlf
American Piping Products, Inc.
Pennie Anderson
Paul Berry
Donna and Jim Biederman
Steve and Linda Biederman
Jeffrey and Karen Boland
Mike Hart & Gary Bollmann
Monica and Joseph Castagno
Chris and Heather Dohrn
The Finney Family
Janice Fraley
Jeffrey and Shannon Fraley
Dan and Jackie Frisbee
Gorilla 76 LLC
Marlan and Jean Graham
Ryan Hayes
Theodore Herman
Gary Heyde
The Howard Family
Pat Hubbell
Paul and Linda Hubbell
Sabrina Iacangelo
Jack Link’s Protein Snacks
Randy and Julie Kindred
Chris and Jay Mason
Linda Mueller
Michele Nelson
Nestle Purina PetCare
Larry and Cindy Nichols
David and Theresa Niemeyer
Daryl and Stephen Norman
Judy Nuttmann
Pat and Claire O’Brien
Amy and Danny Phipps
Pam Phipps
Michael and Charlotte Resmann
Lisa Rietz
Kenn and Jane Ritchey
The David Scott Family
Lee and Linda Smith
Lacey Starling
David Swick
Lanny and Maureen Swingle
John and Peggi Szuba
Mark and Joan Unnerstall
Gregory and Dawn Zuzack
Peter Jabbour
Ellie and JC Dillon
Joe and Delores Kube
Phil and Pam Luetkemeyer
Aggie Jenkins
Donna and Will Bowers
Patrick and Joyce Bruno
Marianne Horstmann
Richard Pecher
Joe and Sue Silliman
Stuart Keck
Susan Keck
HONORARY & MEMORIAL DONATIONS
BOLD NAMES ARE THOSE BEING HONORED OR MEMORIALIZED.
Memorial Donations
January–April 2026 (CONT.)
Bryan Keith
Dennis and Linda Balance
John and Kathy Bank
Culliton Family, Mandrell Family & Mueller
Family
Myron and Mary Dillow
Eric and Cheryl Groeller
Mike and Lara Jackson
Andrew and Sherrill Kolvek
Janie Kueck
Ashok and Drupadi Kumar
Rhonda Lutker
David and Cindy Mashour Family
Mike and Chris Poldan
Bob and Cindy Skosky
Alan and Patti Tate
Rob and Marla Vearil Family
Bryan Knight
Mary Merrello
Logan Kowalski
The Hiles Family
Jozie Kraemer
Steven and Alyssa Ahne
Anonymous Donor
Curtis and Diane Backs
Brian, Staci & Sophia Bechtel
Belleville School District 118
Jeff Bock Family
Terry and Mary Borrenpohl
Chet Breitwieser and Rodney Starns
Julie Brown
Eric and Susan Caponi
Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church
John Deckard
David and Roberta Dermody
Kendra Deterding
John Eachus
Paula Farley and Tiffany Vanmatre
James and Cynthia Funkhouser
John Goelz and Family
Mike and Barb Hahn
Hudson Reinagel Family
Jozie Strong
The Junck Family
James and Bonnie Kolb
The Laurent and Rueter Families
Raymond and Nancy Leslie
George and Nina Marifian
Alyssa Mueller
Kurtis and Paula Mullins
The Noskis
Nathan and Jennifer Patterson
Abbey and Adam Payne
Mattison Perez
Prindable Insurance Agency
Kelly Remijan
Joshua and Angela Rickert
The Bruce Romine Family
Jill and Chris Rosecrans
Donald and Alice Schwierjohn
Steven and Kathy Sperry
St. Joseph Catholic School
Jana Steibel
Ty Suhre
Matthew and Stephane Sutton
Ben and Tracy Thessing
Stephen and Kathy Thompson
Amber Trout
Union Elementary School
Jon and Patricia Vermeiren
Todd Vohland
Andrew and Melissa Wilkerson
Beth and Eric Wolfmeier
Gene Lapin
Charles and Kelly Hylan
Caden Leesmann
Crystal Ruth
Caleb Leslie
Malcolm and Pamela Klearman
Beth and Ryan Leslie
Stephanie Lindemann
Immaculate Conception School / Church
Emily Linneman
Kelly Litteken
Thomas Lorenz
Karen Korn & Blair Dubinsky
Safiya Mahmudova
Craig Elementary School
Anne Malecek
Ed Schmid
Ann Manganaro
Kathy Manganaro
Nick McCord
Kelly and Duane McCord
Teresa McQuay
Mary Braxton, Kathleen Lovekamp & Anne
Wendt
Margaret Francis
Charlotte Meatte
Anita and Andrew Higginbotham
Luke and Charlotte Meatte
Anita and Andrew Higginbotham
Jaxon Menner
Barbara Menner
Eugene and Margaret Meyer
Diane and Damon Cartmell
Dorothy Miller
John and Carol Bickel
The Bigley Family
John Grone
Pecha Family Foundation
St. Louis Street Road Assoc.
Gregory and Kelly Steinkamp
Mary Ellen Christman Hyde Mooney
Molly and Rick Henry
Mike Mullen
John and Christy Zisser
Mary Mulvihill
Bob and Naomi Becker
Sandra and Michael Becker
Heather Blakeslee
Mary & Ed Brockhaus
Bob and Eileen Burns
Rosalie & Jerry Caruso
Diane & Chris Cedergreen
Christine Clarke
The Cochran Cousins
Justin and Kathy Durel
Lynn Ebest
Jim and Nanette Ford
Patrick and Ann Gunn
Marilyn & Hans Hecker
Patricia Heidger
The Hietpas Family
Philip Hunt
Lisa Kenkel
Mary Ellen Klostermeyer
Craig and Charlene Kuhl
Pat and John Leahy
Lyn Maxwell
Mellow Kings 2011
Donna Moore
Karen Nagle
William and Patricia Nagle
Susan Perez
Renee and Scott Petty
Willie Powelson
Steven Pricone & Michele Farley
Beverly Rombach
Stephen and Mary Roy
Michael and Annemarie Schloeman
The Senica Family
Jason Smith
Alison Taylor
Mrs. Taylor’s 5th Graders & Families
FP Tillman Elementary School
Terry & Keith Travis
Vianney Admissions Friends: Aaron, Alice,
Jessie, Monica Tom & Xavier
Diane and Keith Voigt
Mary Walters
James and Margaret Willen
Lynne, Jake, and Nick Wilson
Patty Wilson-Kelly
Julie Zuckerman
Tom Mulvihill
The Cochran Cousins
The Hietpas Family
Karen Nagle
Drew Patchin
David & Martha Aronson and Rob & Julie
Aronson
Jeff and Jeri Bogard
Marci Mayer Eisen
Amy Falke
Gary and Robin Feder
Daniel Ginsburg
Rhonda Ginsburg
Karen Leonard
Lisa Pavlacic
Debbie Schultz
Kenneth Patterson, Sr.
Ron and Donna Clark
Hannah Quirk
Crossroads Elementary
Liz Reh
Dave and Sue Domian
Dave Ritchey
Frank and Pam Bass
Matt and Julie Biffignani
Jack and Cherie Brown
Patty Callahan
Aaron Herzon
The Leonard Family
Larry and Linda Martin
The Neuner Family
Judie Samson
Ray and Terri Shank
Jan Weaver
Kaye Roberts
Nicole Mazanec
Gary Sacks
Bruce and Laurie Glazier
Jackson Schmitt
Windsor C-1 School District
Martha Secoy
Maureen Cassani
Trudie Taylor
Karen Korn
Griffin Thomas
Diane and Bob Kopitsky
Kathy Thomas
Wolf and Celia Turec
Ben and Jill Turec
Joe Utz
Janice and Mike Spathelf
Hudson Van Roekel
Andrew Ellis
Mark Wehking
The Abercrombie Family
Acropolis Investment Management, LLC
Stephanie Anderson
Rick and Patty Battles
Gary and Sue Bland
Gene and Janet Heist
Lewis Irvine
John and Karen Klos
Doug and Alicia Nolte
John and Kathy O’Toole
Mary Ann Weiss
Judy Bennett
Dale and Sandra Fischer
Jenny and Randy Spencer
Jodi Wilia
Jordan Wilia
Kristen Wurdack
Anonymous Donor
Lynn Diraimondo
Mickie Zelenovich
Todd Zick
Leukemia 24/7
Art from the Heart®
ATTEND OR BID VIRTUALLY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 at Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis
Learn more at friendsofkids.com/art
Donate Toys and Supplies
Learn more at friendsofkids.com/wishlist
Make a Secure Online Donation
Become a Monthly Donor
Dedicate a Donation
Learn more at friendsofkids.com/donate
Visit Side Project Brewing
Purchase a For Friends golden lager at any Side Project Brewing location or at sideprojectbrewing.com
