“I look forward to my children participating in this wonderful program every year. They are encouraged, challenged and well cared for during the day. It is two days of the year they can put their fears behind them. Thank you to all for everything that you do. It is very much appreciated by my family.”
-  Melinda, Participant Parent

“It’s good to not have to talk about cancer, you know everyone is in a similar situation, it makes it very comfortable.” – Participant age 14

“ I think I had as much fun as the kids if not more! I can’t wait to come back next time.” – Student Volunteer

“At first I was unsure about coming to the program, I had never challenged myself like this before. I came and had a great time, I want to come back again and again.” – Jonah, age 15

“I saw the piece on WMUR’s Chronicle one night last week and felt compelled to write. What a wonderful thing this camp is, and what a terrific way to honor Crescentia’s memory. There is such a need for this, as the children of cancer patients are often forgotten. My mom was diagnosed with cervical cancer my senior year of high school and passed away my freshman year of college. My sister is 4 years younger than I. It was tough. Granted I was 18, but still needed a mom, as did my sister at 14. I wish one of my aunts or a family friend had stepped up to fill the void and mentor me. Anyway, I’m fine now, but boy, do I see the need for a place like On Belay to give these kids an outlet and a place to grieve, heal and feel like normal kids. There is nothing worse than feeling you’re all alone in the world. Keep up the good work and thank you for all you do.” -Diane, NH

“In alignment with our mission, the Family Connections Program appreciates the ability to use On Belay as a tool to help us in supporting, supplementing and empowering parents and children coping with cancer as a family. We aim to create an opportunity, through On Belay, for teens to connect with others in a similar family situation. . We hope the participants are able to use their experiences as a metaphor for overcoming challenges in their day-to-day lives as well as creating a space for parents to engage their children about coping as a family.”

-Program Director, Dana Farber Family Connections Program