Zach’s Toy Chest is sponsoring a holiday toy drive to benefit children receiving chemotherapy at Duke Children’s Hospital during the holidays.
Holly Schwab, (who refers to herself as the “Director and Mom to a Cancer Warrior”!) started Zach’s Toy Chest last year because her son, Zach, had neuroblastoma and was treated at Duke.  He underwent 4 months of chemo and 3 surgeries.
Today he is 1 year 3 months cancer free.  And he is a very healthy 2 1/2 year old.  Holly’s family lives in Cary and would like to gather some support to donate toys for this cause.
Zach’s Toy Chest is a non-profit organization created to benefit children of all ages receiving outpatient cancer treatments at Duke Children’s Valvano Day Hospital. Through Zach’s Toy Chest, children are provided with a “something special” – whether it be a toy, book, video game or other – while receiving treatment. Additionally, each child is able to take the gift home with him or her after their treatment session.
Although impressed with the level of professionalism and empathy displayed by staff at the Day Hospital, Holly noticed the lack of toys for the children to play with during treatment. If they forgot to bring toys, they had nothing to do during the long days of treatment.
Donations include new, unopened toys for all ages, books and video games.  Certainly cash donations are welcome.
To donate an item, go to Whole Foods at 102 New Waverly Place in Cary or 621 Broad Street in Durham.  Whole Foods will also be hosting a Pig Pickin’ for the cause on December 19.
For more information contact Holly Schwab, at  ZachsToyChest@gmail.com or call 919-851-3255.