Super Ethan's Steps holding seventh annual event

KINGSVILLE — The 7th annual Super Ethan’s Steps will take place on Sunday, September 26.

Once again, the event will be virtual with a virtual raffle table included on this year’s slate.

All of the proceeds will go directly to the Pediatric Oncology Unit.

Ethan Abdul-Massih began his cancer journey just before his second birthday. He was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in January 2014.

Ethan went through over three years of treatments and procedures to combat his Leukemia.

“He completed treatment in April 2017 and we are happy and grateful to note that he is doing well for the most part,” said his mom, Nicole.

Ethan is now in Grade 4 and enjoys many activities such as hockey, soccer, science, video games, swimming and spending time with his family and friends.

“My husband Charlie and I started this fundraiser initially as our way of saying thank you to the medical teams and organizations who helped our son (and ourselves, frankly) throughout Ethan’s cancer journey, as well as to raise awareness for Childhood Cancer,” said Nicole.

“We learned quickly that so many children and families are affected by childhood cancer, even at a local level, in so many different ways,” she added.

Ethan Abdul-Massih

Yet, childhood cancer is looked at by many as a rare disease, when in fact it is the leading cause of death for children.

For the past few years, the Abdul-Massihs have focused their fundraising efforts on supporting the Pediatric Oncology Unit at Windsor Regional Hospital.

“This was a home away from home for our family for years,” said Nicole. “Ethan spent many days, nights and weeks there throughout his treatment.”

This year, they are hoping to raise enough funds to update some medical equipment in the unit, as well as provide some new electronics (Ethan’s favourite) and activities, gas cards and meal vouchers for families admitted or travelling to London and Toronto. They also hope to supply end-of-treatment gifts and therapeutic items to help children ease their fears during hospital visits.

In addition, the Abdul-Masshis are also hoping to fund the Chemo Duck Program which is an educational resource that supports children and their families throughout their childhood cancer journey and helps alleviate stress and anxiety.

Over the years, Super Ethan’s Steps has raised over $60,000 to assist children and families affected by childhood cancer.

“We have a lot of goals but our hope is to reach as many people as we can to help raise awareness for childhood cancer and provide some comfort, care and smiles for children and families affected by it in our Windsor-Essex community,” says Nicole.

You can find more information on our Super Ethan’s Steps Facebook Page or by visiting www.superethanssteps.com.

You can register online at the same website (online registrations will be accepted until Sept 26).

“We are also grateful for any and all monetary donations made,” added Nicole.