(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A local non-profit is putting smiles on the faces of children and parents in the midst of a vicious battle.
It was started in 2018 by Scott and Pammy Kramer after their 3-year-old daughter, Maddie, passed away due to a rare form of cancer.
"Dancing While Cancering really is a labor of love," Kramer said.
"She was a beautiful and incredible light in every which way. Maddie literally and figuratively danced her way through her disease, so we made a commitment at Dancing While Cancering to fulfill what is our one and only mission, which is to bring joy to the inpatient hospital experience for kids with cancer."
Through partnerships across the Chicago area, the Kramers have provided over 1,000 children in pediatric hospitals with what are called "smile packs."
"Inside, it's all goodies to help remind them that when they're in the depths of their hell, there are still moments to smile," Kramer said.
That includes things like musical instruments and speakers.
"In my heart of hearts, my hope is that she's looking down on us and saying 'keep dancing, mommy and daddy,'" Scott said. "Smiling knowing that we're bringing joy that she knows is so important."
More information can be found online at dancingwhilecancering.org.
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