About Kelly & Carol

Kelly Carol Foundation for Children with Cancer

"Although I had to grow up a lot faster than I would have liked, I believe that I have learned more things than some people do in a lifetime. I realize how important life is and to cherish every day you have."

Kelly was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, also known as ALL, during her freshman year of high school. She fought the disease for the next four years. In spite of chemotherapy, radiation, and a bone-marrow transplant, Kelly finished high school as a member of the National Honor Society. She received the YWCA Bright Futures Award "for her positive effect on her school and community." Kelly's determination to live, despite so many obstacles, is a testament to her extraordinary strength of character.

Kelly attended Ohio State University with the goal of becoming a pediatric oncologist. After making the Dean's List in her first quarter, she suffered a relapse. Although Kelly was scheduled for another transplant, her tired body was unable to endure. Kelly died a few months after beginning her mission to help children.

The Foundation was formed to carry on Kelly's mission to help children with cancer.

"Your greatest gift in life is your time."

The Foundation was redicated in 2003 to honor the memory of one of its founding members, Carol Gabelman, who died tragically in July 2002.

Carol was not only instrumental in establishing the Foundation and its mission, but also defined the unique way in which services would be provided to children with cancer and their families. As the Foundation's Family Services Coordinator, Carol utilized her 17 years of healthcare expertise as a critical care nurse to work in tandem with the hemotology/oncology departments at Children's Hospital in Cincinnati and Columbus to assess the most critical needs of each family.

Carol's open and warm personality invited and inspired others to volunteer their time on behalf on the Foundation. It was truly in the giving that brought great joy to her life.Carol worked with great strength and determination, always with an accepting heart and giving smile. By rededicating the Foundation in honor of Kelly and Carol's memory, it is hoped that others will give of themselves, as Kelly and Carol did, with loving kindness.