Anita $upport$ On Belay

Cancer is hard on everyone. 

The impact of the word "cancer" goes well beyond the patient. It affects family, friends, colleagues. There will be meals, flowers, cards and words of support. But for kids, their world is turned upside down. Things are uncertain, isolating and heavy. And often, they feel unsure of how and where to express their feelings. 

History:

On Belay was founded by a mother of two with cancer. She understood that the best way she could support her girls through their collective journey, was to provide them a safe place for community, connection, challenge adventures, and even some fun. She wanted her kids to know they are not alone. 

Today:

This is what On Belay continues to do some 22 years later. 

Kids gathers at the base of a climbing wall. Some are quiet; some nervous, but all have one thing in common: cancer has touched their lives. A parent, a sibling, someone they love is fighting a battle that has reshaped their world.

Harnesses are clipped and helmets secured. One participant starts the climb, hesitant at first, then more confident. Halfway up they pause - unsure if they can continue. Then they hear voices below rise up in support:  “You’ve got this!” “We’re right here!”  And something shifts ~ this experience has nothing to do with cancer. It’s about courage, fun, trust and belonging. Mission accomplished. 

At On Belay, these moments happen time and time again. Through adventure-based programs: rock climbing, hiking, paddling, ropes courses and team challenges, kids discover something powerful within themselves: resilience and inner strength. They build friendships with others who truly understand. They laugh, they push their limits, and they begin to heal.

You can help:

We never charge for any of our 21 programs. Your support makes these experiences possible by covering the cost of the venues, the facilitators, the insurance, the equipment. You can play a role in giving kids the chance to climb higher than they thought they could - on the wall, and in life. 

Join me to help On Belay continue to create these moments and adventures where kids impacted by cancer can find strength, joy, and community.