Children aren't supposed to get this sick, not with cancer. And that's what makes pediatric cancer so distressing.

I have been treating kids with cancer in SWFL for more than 20 years. In 1995, I met with Frank Haskell to welcome the support of Barbara's Friends. - the pediatric cancer fund. It's because of Barbara's Friends that Golisano Children's Hospital is the only accredited children's hospital between Tampa and Miami with a full in-patient and outpatient clinic to teat pediatric cancer patients. The donor-supported program has treated more than 10,000 children with many forms of cancer and blood disorders.

Years ago, Lee Health's leadership made a bold decision that Golisano Children's Hospital would never deny treatment for any child as a result of their family's inability to pay, and they've stuck to that commitment. Not every world-class hospital system can say that, nor does every hospital experience the strong community support that Golisano Children's Hospital has enjoyed since day one.

For the past 26 years, Barbara's Friends has helped over 10,000 local SWFL kids with cancer and blood disorders from infancy to age 30. This year alone more than 25 local children have been told they have cancer. Last year 70 children were diagnosed. The numbers are up. More families need your help. Please support our Shavee's by making a donation and share with our friends and family to make a difference in our community. Cancer doesn't care who, when or were. WE DO! To learn more about the cause please visit BarbarasFriends.org