The holidays can sometimes be a challenging time for families battling cancer. While they should be focused on joy and togetherness, they are often burdened by the emotional toll that cancer can take.
To help bring some joy to these families’ lives, Karmanos Cancer Institute has begun hosting Evening with the Elves, an event centered around families battling cancer that provides an evening to relax and enjoy all the holidays have to offer. Evening with the Elves is in its second year and has boasted a large turnout both times. With over 100 guests on Dec. 8, 2024, the event continues to provide unforgettable memories to more and more families each year.
Thanks to the efforts of generous volunteers and dedicated Karmanos staff, the event remains free for families to attend.
“The holiday season is a time of togetherness, and we want families to have a place where they can create lasting memories with their children, loved ones and others on a similar cancer journey,” said Brandy Lee, integrated care management assistant at Karmanos and organizer of Evening with the Elves. “Meeting other families going through similar journeys helps to remind everyone that no one is alone in their fight against cancer.”
Each family was greeted at the door by volunteers or team members dressed as elves and escorted to the main event area, the Wertz lobby, which was transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with presents, arts and crafts, a cotton candy machine, photos, face painting and more.
One of the most popular stations was the present room, with a special visitor, Santa Claus. Every family had the opportunity to visit Santa to take photos and explore the present room before choosing one gift for each child. Children and their families were lined up down the hallway to get an opportunity to meet Santa and create a lasting family Christmas memory.
There were also several tables with arts and crafts for the families to visit. With plenty of elf volunteers supplying all varieties of projects, each child felt like they were in Santa’s workshop. In addition to the main event area in the Wertz lobby, the space was complete with a roaring virtual fireplace and a dining area full of food.
While the holidays can be challenging for families battling cancer, Karmanos is committed to creating lasting memories and providing hope through events like Evening with the Elves.