Kids Kicking Cancer is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides weekly classes for children, both inpatient and outpatient, in the mind-body techniques found in the martial arts. Their mission is “to ease the pain of very sick children while empowering them to heal physically, spiritually and emotionally.”
Through an innovative program that merges modern integrative medicine with traditional martial arts, Kids Kicking Cancer addresses the overwhelming needs of children with illness. Specially trained black belt martial artists teach breathing, visualization, and relaxation techniques, in addition to traditional martial arts moves to help empower the children and provide them with a sense of power, peace and purpose. Martial arts classes, support during hospital & clinic procedures, uniforms, and transportation to and from classes are provided to families at no cost.
Patient Quote:
“I’ve learned to control the panic I feel when I go to the doctor and hear something I don’t understand. I can step back and use my breathing to not panic and not jump to conclusions. The other main benefit has been motivation: when I go to class, I see other kids who are sick like me, and I realize that if they can do it, so can I. The other kids push me to do better.”
Parent Quote:
“The kids learn real techniques and fundamentals of martial arts and the instructors are legitimate. For parents who are swamped with medical bills, the fact that there was no cost was also a big deal.”
Patient Quote:
“I’ve learned to control the panic I feel when I go to the doctor and hear something I don’t understand. I can step back and use my breathing to not panic and not jump to conclusions. The other main benefit has been motivation: when I go to class, I see other kids who are sick like me, and I realize that if they can do it, so can I. The other kids push me to do better.”
Parent Quote:
“The kids learn real techniques and fundamentals of martial arts and the instructors are legitimate. For parents who are swamped with medical bills, the fact that there was no cost was also a big deal.”