I began the first support program for families dealing with childhood cancer through Camp Okizu, a camp program featuring peer support for all members of the family.
I was a patient care volunteer at the Hospice of Marin County, California back when there were only two in the country. After five years, I met a man my age and we became close in his remaining time. Bob really regretted dying without having children.
Then, I saw a television show about some kids with cancer going to a camp in New York. I started a foundation in Bob’s name and contacted hospitals in Northern California that deal with pediatric oncology. That was 34 years ago.
Here are a few comments from camp families:
“Camp Okizu gives these kids their lives back for a week and beyond.”
“We are so grateful for Camp, which has lifted our spirits after a difficult year. It is a comfortable place to acknowledge the new uniqueness of our family.”
Your question about “What would you like the world to know about older workers?” almost makes me laugh. There is no difference from other workers, except we are a little smarter and a little more patient.