1st Place - $1000
2nd Place $750
3rd Place $500
4th Place $250

The story of Barbara’s Friends – The Children’s Hospital Cancer Fund

At age 32, Barbara Haskell learned she had breast cancer.  During her four-year battle against the illness, Barbara marveled at the bravery of children with cancer.  She often wondered how children so young dealt with a treatment that sometimes can be more difficult than the disease itself.

She always spoke of her desire to help children in their fight against cancer.  Her parents, Betty and Frank Haskell, have helped make her wish come true with the creation of Barbara’s Friends – The Children’s Hospital Cancer Fund.  The organization’s rainbow logo comes from Barbara’s lifelong love of the classic film “The Wizard of Oz”, and it’s memorable song, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”.  The heart at the end of the rainbow symbolizes the theme of love and hope for children with cancer.

Barbara lost her fight against cancer.  But her legacy, Barbara’s Friends, has helped many children in Southwest Florida win their battles.

Ryan shared the same sentiments as Barbara.  Being surrounded by children throughout his treatment, Ryan always admired their unbelievable strength, courage, and yet, such innocence.  He was a big “kid” himself, a “clown” without a costume as many remember him.  Barbara’s Friends and The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, can help make a difference in the life of a child with cancer or blood disorder. Every child deserves the best medical care, right here at home.