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Scotch Plains, NJ – When a child is diagnosed with cancer the parent’s feelings range from panic to sorrow and fear to anger. Those feelings and the possibility of extended, in-patient treatments can create incredible emotional stress and turmoil for the child and the family.
That’s why the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) of New Jersey has chosen to support the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation (ECF). “When we understood the enormous value ECF’s services brought to families facing a diagnosis of pediatric cancer, our decision to offer financial support was easy. ECF is the only agency in New Jersey to offer free, in-home counseling and support to help families during this overwhelming time,” said Steve Wooton, Past IOOF Grand Master for the Jurisdiction of New Jersey and newest Board Member for ECF. "This is a tremendous gesture from the IOOF Grand Lodge of New Jersey and a
perfect example of how collaborations between agencies can benefit New
Jersey families across the state," said Carol Davis, Managing Director of
ECF. “With their support, we were able to cover the costs of all our Caseworkers for the entire month of September, especially poignant as Governor Corzine proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in New Jersey and cited ECF as an agency providing free, in-home counseling,” continued Carol.
About the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is a service organization with Lodges throughout the State of New Jersey. Odd Fellowship is one of the oldest fraternities in the world. This non-political and non-sectarian order was founded on the basis of universal brotherhood. The order stresses the importance of the principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth. Odd Fellowship aims to impress upon its members a real sense of their obligation to others. “The IOOF seeks people who want to help their community prosper, and who want to serve others whenever there is a need,” continued Wooton.
About the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation
The Emmanuel Cancer Foundation provides free in-home counseling and support
to pediatric cancer patients and their families throughout New Jersey.
Services are provided through a statewide team of Caseworkers and Regional
Directors in: Midland Park, Scotch Plains, Wall Township, Somers Point and
Woodbury.
Founded in 1983 after the death of their son Emmanuel, Susan and Joseph
Vizzoni established the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation in memory of their son
and as a resource for preserving the overall quality of life for families dealing with a diagnosis of pediatric cancer. Since its inception, ECF has served over 1500 families and has become known
for providing emotional, material and even financial support to families
battling pediatric cancer. ECF is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization privately funded by individuals, corporations, foundations and community groups. For more information about the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, please visit their website at: http://ioofnj.org/index.php. |
