Seriously ill patients and their families enjoyed an Adar to remember with Chai4ever’s joyous and spirited Purim programming. “Adar can be a time of despair and isolation for families who can’t embrace the joyous spirit of Purim,” explained Sam Zaks, Executive Vice President and Founder of Chai4ever. “Our goal during this time was not only to relieve our children and families’ pain, but to bring back the simcha and energy that leads to emotional and physical healing.”
Hundreds of children kicked off an exciting Purim season at Chai4ever’s spectacular Pre-Purim Carnival. Amidst the frenzy of last-minute Purim preparations, parents burdened by the stress of illness carry a doubled load. This year, they had the luxury of leaving their children in the capable hands of Chai4ever’s loving volunteers for a memorable day. “We are so grateful to Chai4ever,” expressed Sara, “for the wonderful time our kids had at the carnival and the beautiful mishloach manos. You truly brought simcha to our family at such a critical time.” The carnival offered entertainment and amusements for everyone including face-painting, games, prizes, cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn and pizza. The excitement of the endless array of booths and activities was boosted by the awarding of Grand Prize Raffle tickets. Moonwalks, inflatables and moon shoes kept the children flying high. Participants were impressed by Chai4ever’s dedicated volunteers who kept the energy pumping with spirited song and dance. Every child left with nosh, balloons and invigorated spirits.
On Purim itself, dozens of devoted Chai4ever volunteers worked tirelessly to deliver personally selected and beautifully packaged mishloach manos to families affected by parental illness. “These packages brought such joy to my children and they haven’t stopped talking about the volunteers who came and danced at our doorstep!” exclaimed Sheila M., a Chai4ever patient battling breast cancer. The joy the packages brought to patients and their children was eclipsed only by their excitement at the singing, dancing and merriment that the volunteers brought with them wherever they went.
Meanwhile, Chai4ever’s Israeli division held a pre-Purim event for women whose lives have been affected by cancer r»l. The women enjoyed a packed program, including a delicious dairy dinner and personal performance by actress and director Donna Shwartzman, that awarded them a respite from the crushing anxiety of their daily lives. The evening presented the women with an opportunity to relax, laugh and enjoy the camaraderie of others who understand their suffering. «It is impossible to describe the powerful benefit of an event like this and its long-term positive influence on body and spirit,” conveyed Malky K. “This is not a luxury, but literally critical to our mental well-being.»
Chai4ever brings hope, strength and spirit to hundreds of families suffering from parental illness with dozens of tailored programs and recreational activities throughout the year.
For more information, please visit www.chai4ever.org, email [email protected] or call 646-519-2190.
