Munster Woman Lends a Hand to Children Fighting Cancer

In the spirit of giving, Munster resident Char Mannix is supporting children fighting cancer by lending her hand to make a difference to benefit the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation (POTCF), an Orland Park-based, non-profit organization that provides toys and gift cards to children and teens diagnosed with cancer nationwide.

The origin of Char’s involvement with the Treasure Chest Foundation can be traced back to 2007, when she first learned about the Foundation from her son Terry Mannix. Since then Char has been donating her time and efforts by wrapping toy packages, folding, sealing and labeling numerous mailers for the organization benefiting children who have cancer.

When asked why she volunteers for the POTCF Char stated, “She wanted to help the organization because there are so many children who are suffering from cancer that my heart goes out to them.” She also finds it very gratifying and rewarding to work alongside the warm caring people of this organization.

Ms. Kisel expressed her profound appreciation, saying, “The Treasure Chest Foundation is especially thankful for Char’s wonderful contribution of helping over the years. Char Mannix is a devoted volunteer who has pledged to make an impact in the lives of children and teens battling cancer. We are so blessed to have her support.”

The not-for-profit Treasure Chest Foundation now supports more than 9,300 children and teens each month who are diagnosed with cancer by providing a toy or gift card in 49 hospitals nationwide. Nowhere else in the nation does such a program exist. CEO Colleen Kisel founded the organization in 1996 after her then seven-year-old son Martin had been diagnosed with leukemia in 1993. Colleen discovered that giving her son a toy after each procedure provided a calming distraction from his pain. Martin is on course to celebrate his 22nd anniversary of remission from the disease later this year.

If you would like further information about the Treasure Chest Foundation, please contact Colleen Kisel at 708-687-TOYS (8697) or visit the Foundation’s web site at www.treasurechest.org.