Northern Nevada Children's Cancer Foundation

History

The roots of our organization

The Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation (NNCCF) is the only organization dedicated solely to supporting children with cancer and their families in Northern Nevada and the eastern Sierra region. The Foundation was formed when Angel Kiss Foundation and Keaton Raphael Memorial (Reno office) legally merged on Sept. 1, 2009. NNCCF continues to build on established programs and more effectively use donations. NNCCF is a comprehensive resource organization providing financial and emotional assistance, advocacy, awareness and research funds. Since its inception, the Foundation has helped approximately 300 families and provided more than $1.5 million in direct financial assistance.

Angel Kiss Foundation (AKF) was founded in 2000 in memory of 5-year-old Jarryd, who passed away from leukemia in 1990. Jarryd’s grandparents, David and Barbara Rosin, established the Foundation and named it after a birthmark on Jarryd’s cheek, which the family referred to as his “Angel Kiss.” It was the family’s personal experience battling pediatric cancer and their understanding of the financial burden that led them to establish AKF. Since its inception, the Foundation remained focused on its primary goal of reducing the monetary burden associated with the battle against pediatric cancer by providing direct financial assistance.

Keaton Raphael Memorial (KRM) was established in 1998 in Roseville, Calif. by Robyn Raphael whose son, Keaton, passed away from neuroblastoma at the age of 5. The organization assists childhood cancer families through patient care, research, advocacy and education funds. To further its commitment, a chapter of Keaton Raphael Memorial was established in Reno, Nev. in 2004. The mission of the Reno chapter was to facilitate support services for childhood cancer families by providing financial resources and developing partnerships within the local community. Today, Robyn Raphael continues her efforts to help northern California families through the Keaton Raphael Memorial for neuroblastoma located in Roseville.

Despite the tragedies experienced by the Rosin and Raphael families, their actions to assist others battling childhood cancer forever have positively impacted a multitude of families. It is in their spirit and unrelenting drive that we continue our work to support the kids that fight so hard.