Beads of Optimism in Boise

Optimist International made a commitment to fund research at Johns Hopkins Research Hospital to eradicate childhood cancer in 2001.  To date Optimist Clubs in the United States have given more than $1 million to that cause.  But the really exciting part of that commitment was the ongoing efforts that Optimist Clubs are conducting in their communities, on a local level.

In Boise, Idaho, the Noon Optimist Club has an ongoing commitment with St. Luke's Hospital and the Mountain States Tumor Institute (MSTI) to fund a program called "Beads of Optimism."  The beads are like a charm bracelet or necklace.  Children are given beads to symbolize different stages in their disease and recovery.  They are even given beads for the moods they are feeling.  According to a hospital spokesperson, this program makes a difference because it helps children talk about their experiences with others.  By showing the beads, they can tell the story of why they received it. 

Thanks to the  Boise Noon Optimist Club and all other Optimist Clubs for making a difference through the inspiration of the Optimist International Childhood Cancer Campaign.