Founder Q&A: How We’re Making a Difference for Kids with Serious Illnesses This Summer

Are you looking for a way to make a difference this summer? For our July TickTalk Gives, we’re donating a portion of proceeds to SeriousFun Children’s Network. This organization, founded by Paul Newman, provides specialized summer camps for children with serious illnesses, providing a safe and supportive environment for kids who need it most.

We sat down with Ying Gong, President and co-founder of TickTalk, to learn more about why she decided to support SeriousFun and how customers can get involved. So grab a cold drink and read on to learn how you can help make a difference in the lives of children battling serious illnesses this summer.

Why did you choose SeriousFun for this month’s TickTalk Gives charity?

Sending children who are battling serious illnesses to summer camp resonates with me because it provides them with an opportunity to enjoy the simple joys of childhood that may have been overshadowed by their medical challenges. It also allows these children to make beautiful memories and friendships.

What do you hope to accomplish by giving kids with serious illnesses a life-changing camp experience? 

By giving a life-changing camp experience to a child with a serious medical condition, I hope to accomplish several things. First, I hope to empower these kids by showing them that they are not just defined by their illness, that they can still have fun and participate in any activity they want. Secondly, I hope to create a supportive environment where these children can connect with others who have had similar experiences and develop a sense of community and belonging.

This organization not only helps children, but the parents of children battling severe illnesses. Why is that important to you?

This organization's focus on not only helping children, but also the parents of children battling severe illnesses is particularly important to me due to my own personal experience. When my daughter was very young, she was diagnosed with ITP, and I felt incredibly helpless during that time. As a parent, you cannot take away your child's pain or bear the burden of their illness, but you endure the emotional and physical toll that it takes on both you and your child. I wish I had known about this organization back then, as it would have provided me with a network of people who could share their experiences and offer support to alleviate some of the mental burdens I faced. By helping parents, the organization fosters a strong support system, which can be crucial in navigating the challenges of caring for a seriously ill child.