Newswise — Chicago (Oct. 14, 2016): The Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) is pleased to recognize three organizations that are strong and effective contributors to the pediatric hematology/oncology nursing community and the patients and families served with an Honorary Membership Award. The honorary membership recognition was presented for the first time at APHON’s 40th Annual Conference and Exhibit in Indianapolis, IN. Beads of Courage, Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation and The Daisy Foundation are the inaugural honorary membership recipients.

Beads of Courage is a program that works to transform the treatment experience for children coping with chronic, life threatening illness through an arts-in-medicine program. Executive Director, Jean Gribbon, PhD RN developed the program which was initially piloted at Phoenix Children’s Hospital in 2003 and has gone on to be established in over 240 children’s hospitals in the United Sates, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom and Japan.

Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation works to ensure that children fighting cancer and their families have a voice and that their psychosocial needs are addressed. The foundation was instrumental in the development of Psychosocial Standards of Care for Children with Cancer and their families. The scientific, evidence-based psychosocial standards define a minimum level of care that all children with cancer and their families should receive. The foundation was formed by Victoria Sardi-Brown, PhD and Peter Brown following the passing of their son Mattie in 2009.

The DAISY Foundation, which stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System, was formed by the parents and wife of Patrick Barnes following his passing. The DAISY Foundation recognizes extraordinary nurses and has been adopted by facilities throughout the US and beyond. The DAISY award is seen as inspirational, a tool to boost morale and encourage mentoring. The honorary membership award was accepted by Bonnie Barnes, FAAN and Mark Barnes, FAAN.

APHON President, Kathy Ruccione, PhD MPH RN FAAN CPON®, shares her excitement by stating “On APHON’s 40th anniversary, it is a great privilege to recognize the extraordinary work these individuals and organizations have done toward the health and well-being of pediatric hematology-oncology nurses and patients/families. We are absolutely delighted to welcome them to the APHON family as honorary members.”

APHON is the professional organization for pediatric hematology/oncology nurses and other pediatric hematology/oncology healthcare professionals. Its members are dedicated to promoting optimal nursing care for children, adolescents and young adults with cancer and blood disorders, and their families. APHON provides the leadership and expertise to pediatric hematology/oncology nurses by defining and promoting the highest standards of practice and care to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult communities.