Family Resources and Support from JoyRx Programs

At Children’s Cancer Association, we understand how challenging hospital stays and ongoing treatments can be — for both kids and their families. Our free JoyRx Programs in Music, Mentorship, and Nature are designed to bring moments of comfort, connection, and joy to children facing serious illness.

Use this page to explore available JoyRx Programs and resources that can support your family, whether you’ve just been referred by your hospital or are learning about us for the first time.

A man holding a baby girl by the lakeshore with mountains and trees in the background, and a red kayak on the shore.

A young girl wearing a blue and purple jacket and jeans, smiling with her arms raised, standing on the beach near a sandcastle with multiple towers, with the ocean in the background.

“I know how overwhelming it can be to receive a cancer diagnosis for your child and family. Take heart: you’ve found JoyRx, and you are not alone on this journey.”

A woman with two young children at the beach, with the ocean and cars in the background.

— Regina Ellis
Co-founder of Children’s Cancer Association

Find Resources Near You

Four children standing on a sandy beach with ocean waves, a large rock formation, and cliffs in the background, smiling at the camera.

Portland, Oregon

A young boy lying in a hospital bed, watching a tablet device. A medical professional wearing a mask is leaning over him, pointing or talking. The hospital room has medical equipment, monitors, and supplies around.

Elsewhere in the US

Start here to discover JoyRx Programs available in your area. Select your location to explore how our free services can bring emotional support, creative expression, and moments of joy to your child and family.

Real Stories from Families Like Yours

You’re not alone in this experience. Visit our blog to read real stories from families who’ve found comfort and connection through JoyRx programs — and discover how small moments of joy can make a big difference.

Featured

Mentor, Music

What Sparks Joy: Kira’s Story

Mentor, Music

When Kira was twelve years old, she received an unexpected cancer diagnosis. Faced with these new hardships, she found joy thanks to her experience with JoyRx Music and the connection she formed with her JoyRx Mentor.

Mentor, Music

Mentor

Extraordinary in the Ordinary: Alan’s Story

Mentor

In August 2022, Alan was what he would describe as a typical 17-year-old — enjoying his summer, looking forward to his senior year of high school, and spending time with his friends.

But by the end of the summer, he’d be grappling with a cancer diagnosis. Thankfully, there was a new friend on the horizon to help make his hospital visits easier.

Mentor

Music

Beyond the Bedside: What Virtual Music Teaches Us About Arts in Health

Music

This article is part of our 30 on 30 series, commemorating 30 years of Children’s Cancer Association in 2025. This month, we welcome a guest blog from JoyRx Music Senior Manager Elke Downer as she highlights the importance of JoyRx Music Digital Live.

Music