Meet our SunriseWALKS 2024 Family Ambassador – Michelle Nowinski

It was just another diaper change for my 6-week-old son Teddy when I felt a small lump on his inner thigh. The doctors didn’t have any answers at the time and told me to monitor it for changes. Two weeks later, I found another lump near the first. I ultimately found 14 little lumps all over his body, and our world was turned upside-down: Teddy was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma.

Teddy started treatment a few days later, while we scrambled to establish a new normal. His toddler brother Logan spent extra time with his dad and grandparents, while Teddy would go off on “adventures” for testing, scans, and treatment. After eight cycles of chemo, Teddy rang the bell at only 8-months-old—he was in remission!

Last spring, we heard about Sunrise Day Camp-Chicago and thought it would be great for Teddy and his brother. I was blown away by how amazing the whole experience has been. It brought so much relief and joy knowing that our boys were having fun, learning new things, and making great friends—while being kept safe and healthy.

This summer, my daughter was able to join in on all the fun. The experiences and support has been beyond my imagination. The best part about the camp is watching my children having a great time just being kids, and seeing the love they have for the staff and their fellow campers. We look forward to continuing to spend our summers with all these amazing people!

Sunrise Day Camp-Chicago is nothing short of a miracle for families like mine who have been impacted by pediatric cancer. And as you may already know, this amazing camp is provided 100% FREE to families through generous donors and participants in SunriseWALKS Chicago. Join us at SunriseWALKS on September 8!