JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md., –
The 2016 Parents and Children Fighting Cancer Christmas Party, hosted by the Joint Base Andrews Fisher House, was held in hangar 3 here, Dec. 10.
JBA began hosting the event in 1987 to do something for the children receiving treatment at Walter Reed National Medical Center, said Janet Grampp, JBA’s Fisher House manager.
Approximately 45 families with children registered as pediatric oncology patients at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center attended the winter-wonderland themed event. Hangar 3, was transformed from a military hangar into a festive escape by JBA volunteers who filled it with decorations and holiday music.
“We are so proud to host this wonderful event for the 29th year in a row at Andrews,” said Col. Julie Grundahl, 11th Wing vice commander. “An amazing 150 plus military and community volunteers and entertainers transformed a maintenance hangar into a winter wonderland of fun and joy for local military families and kids battling a terrible disease. This event exemplifies the true spirit of the holiday season.”
There were performances by the U.S. Air Force Band’s Brass Quartet, Agency 9 Performing Arts Studio dancers, and a puppet show by the Berryville Baptist Rascals. Guests were welcomed to view static displays and see demonstrations from various JBA units.
“Our son goes to the hospital every Wednesday for treatments,” said José M. Calvar, an attendee. “Today he has most of his family here and he is the main character. It’s amazing to see.”
In addition to performances and static displays, the families were able to hang out with community volunteers dressed as popular superhero and princess characters. Several other sponsors provided entertainment, face painting and prizes for attendees.
“My goal is to provide a day that [the children or the families are] not thinking about anything but the holidays,” said Grampp. “They’re not thinking about chemo, or radiation treatments or doctors. I want this to be just fantasy and fun.”
Santa and Mrs. Claus visited children at WRNMMC who could not attend the event before stopping by hangar 3 to deliver gifts to families in attendance.