cancer patients are the real winners of Dayton Children’s #GivingTuesday challenge

Every day, Rachelle Musselman, RN, sees the amazing courage and strength of children battling cancer.  As a nurse in the hematology/oncology unit, she joined the #GivingTuesday challenge to raise $1,000 for the care, equipment and support they deserve.  Her efforts were nothing sort of spectacular, raising $2,115, more than double her goal.  As the challenge winner, the hematology/oncology unit will receive an additional $1,000 donation from Dayton Pediatric Imaging.

“I have had the amazing privilege and blessing to care for and love these very precious children who hold a big piece of my heart,” says Rachelle. “I joined the challenge because of how much their beautiful faces have impacted my own life.  Their spirit and laughter have taught me not to take life for granted and be thankful for good health.  Your donations truly do help make a difference for these kids and their families.  Thank you to everyone who donated, not only to me, but to all the other challengers and areas of the hospital.”

Thanks to the giving spirit of the community, Dayton Children’s challengers raised the record amount of $16,350, surpassing its goal.  Three times more people donated this year than in previous years and raised $6,000 more than any year before.  This year, the online challenge had 14 people harnessing the power of social media to raise money for their chosen area of the hospital.  Thanks to their efforts, 14 different specialties will benefit, from CARE House and the Adopt-A-Family program to cardiology and the newborn intensive care unit.

“We could not have asked for a better outcome,” says Bethany Deines, director of annual giving for Dayton Children’s Hospital.  “It is truly heartwarming to see how generous the people of our community are.  They really got behind #GivingTuesday to make a difference in the lives of children who are struggling with illness and injury this holiday season.”

However, just because #GivingTuesday is over doesn’t mean those who want to donate have missed their opportunity.  Donations can always be made on Dayton Children’s website. “The need is always there,” says Deines.  “Donations are always appreciated.  It’s an investment that pays dividends in the health and well-being of all children in the Miami Valley.”

To check the champions’ individual performances, visit Dayton Children’s #GivingTuesday page.

For more information, contact: 

Stacy Porter 

Communications specialist 

Phone: 937-641-3666 

porters@childrensdayton.org