Case Consideration
To begin the process of initiating a case with the Clayton Dabney Foundation for Kids with Cancer, a licensed representative (caseworker, child life specialist, nurse, or doctor) from a recognized organization or agency (hospital, hospice care, social work, or volunteer group) working directly with the needy family hears or sees the needy situation of the family. We consider needy families to include, in addition to those who are financially impoverished, those who fall into lower middle income brackets where both parents are working though unable to take time off because they are working so hard to cover all of the family expenses and medical bills. Cases must also meet additional criteria as outlined below.
Screening Criteria
Our screening criteria used in determining need includes:
- Children 18 years old or younger.
- Case must have progressed to last stage, terminal cancer
- Family in financial need as validated by the referring organization
- Recommendation of the representative of the referring organization must be accompanied by medical authorization of the child's primary physician
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However, if a child is under the age of 21, was diagnosed before turning 18 and is still being treated in pediatric oncology the case may still qualify for assistance.
Required Forms
We ask that the following forms be filled:
- Completed Case Request Information Form
- Case Liability Release Form
- Medical Authorization
Request Guidelines
- Gifts, last wishes and financial assistance which will facilitate quality of family life and create everlasting memories
- Generally a $2,000 cap per family
- For examples of recent CDF cases please go to Case Histories under About Us
Case Review Process
The representative completes the required forms. The forms may be filled out electronically and filed or may be printed off the Web site and a hard copy faxed or mailed to the CDF offices. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 214-361-2600.
The request is then forwarded to our Case Review Committee. We do our best to respond to all requests within three to seven days maximum. We understand that every day is precious for many children and their families and we try to fulfill case requests with expediency.
Where possible, we prefer to remain anonymous and work the grant through the authorized representative making the request. In some cases, when necessary, we will work through the parents as well. Where at all possible, we prefer to remain anonymous to the child so that in the eyes of the child, it is their parents providing this special memory. We do understand, especially with older children who know their parents couldn't provide such extravagance, that anonymity isn't always possible.
Lastly, we welcome any feedback or pictures, when possible, as to the results of the grant.