September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Addison Whipple shares her cancer journey and her participation in Children’s Cancer Connection

Cancer is something I would never wish upon anyone, but I am beyond thankful for the opportunity to be a part of Children’s Cancer Connection and to meet some of the kindest souls on this Earth – Addison

My name is Addison Whipple, and I have been a part of Children’s Cancer Connection for 13 years. I have participated in countless programs, served as a Leader in Training and as a youth representative on the CCC board. I am an Empowering Scholarship recipient and I continue to volunteer for events.

At 5 months old, I was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, stage 4 high risk. I went through 6 rounds of chemo, multiple surgeries, countless blood draws, and many, many tests. I am 19 years old now and am currently 17 years cancer-free. However, cancer still affects me every day. The treatment I received was very toxic to my little developing body, which caused many complications. The lasting effects of my treatment remain with me, and the emotional burden is something I’ll carry forever.

When I was 2 years old, my identical twin sister Ashlyn was also diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. She unfortunately passed away later that year from complications of a stem cell transplant. I miss her dearly every day and hold an immense amount of grief in my heart, but CCC reminds me I don’t have to carry this burden alone. And I know if my sister were here today, she would have loved CCC as much as I do.

CCC has been my rock throughout it all, helping me significantly as both a survivor and sibling.  It has  provided me and others with resources to connect with those who can relate. I cannot express how deep my gratitude runs for all their support. They truly keep their promise to support the entire family, the entire journey.

I struggle a lot with survivor’s guilt, wondering “Why me?”, especially after losing my twin sister and many friends to cancer. A friend at oncology camp told me, “Maybe we’ll make a difference in the world”. I know I’m here for a purpose, and I want to make the most of my life to help others. That’s what CCC does. They dedicate their time and resources to help others and make an impact. Because children are worth more than gold, are more precious than silver, and deserve more than 4 percent of cancer research dollars.

Camp Heart Connection is my favorite thing about CCC. I am convinced it is the most magical place on Earth. I could spend hours talking about all my favorite memories ranging from late nights, getting lost on the way to the lost cabin, delirious conversations at 3 am, and so, so much more. I have met some of my closest friends there, people who have supported me and helped me grow in countless ways.

Camp is the place where I laughed the hardest, cried the hardest, and loved the hardest. It’s my home away from home. To have people that I can talk to freely without worrying about judgment or having to explain myself is liberating. I am so grateful for having the opportunity to meet other childhood cancer warriors and siblings.

My favorite tradition at camp is Wish Night, a special moment where kids have the opportunity to come together to express their feelings and thoughts on their journey. It’s a moment to remember those who have passed, and to know we are not alone.

I want to express my deepest thanks to each and every one of you. Camp is by far my favorite place. Disney World doesn’t even hold a candle to camp, and none of it would be possible without the gracious support and donations of people like you. Donors are what make camp free of charge, which is a blessing to families already struggling with medical bills.

Never ever give up and never lose sight of the incredible potential that resides within each and every one of you. Your kindness, generosity, and support have truly made a difference in my life and countless others. CCC really is the silver lining on the stormy cloud of cancer.

This summer I returned to oncology and sibling camp as a counselor. I was thrilled to come back to my favorite place in the world and this time be a part of magic making.

We are one voice. And we are not alone.