Naperville Community Television NCTV17 – Send a Smile

Access video here: http://www.nctv17.com/send-a-smile/
Posted on July 21, 2016

local woman is making days a little brighter for those battling cancer.

When Kim Whitehouse was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 she knew she wanted to help others, the way her support system helped her through the disease.

“I remember one day I walked out to the mailbox, and it was a really, really rough day, emotionally and physically, and I looked in and there was a card for me. And I immediately felt empowered and energized just knowing someone took time out of their day to root for me and let me know they were thinking of me, and so at that point I knew – I want to do this for other people,” said Whitehouse.

So she started “Send a Smile Today” a volunteer program that sends letters regularly to those fighting cancer.

“We do this to let people know they are not alone fighting cancer, it’s a win win because the people making the cards get so much out of it because they are directly helping someone who needs help. And those who receive the cards really appreciate it and look forward to it every month they enjoy knowing they are supported and not alone,” she said.

Now cancer free; Whitehouse hosts events herself and even allows others to host their own events, hand-making the cards to send to patients all over the United States.

If you know someone battling cancer you can get them on the mailing list as well.

“They can sign up on our website, and anyone can log on and sign up a loved one or themselves and it’s all private we don’t give out any information or you can email us or just come tell me and we will get you cards,” she said.

To date the group has mailed 1200 cards to 160 cancer patients across 33 states.