Cancer Patients Celebrate Their Lives at Prom

June 10, 2008— -- It's that time of year again: the spring prom. Usually it marks the end of a school year, but for 75 young people -- some barely toddlers -- there is a prom of a different sort in New York each year. It's a much needed celebration for children fighting cancer.

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Natalia Harris, who is 12 and battling bone cancer, eagerly anticipated the big event.

"I didn't go to my sixth-grade prom. I didn't have one, so I'm happy," Harris said. "I want to dance around because I can't -- I've danced all my life, but I can't dance now."

In the pediatric wing at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, "The Prom" is the year's main event. The prom, usually used in connection with the end of a school year, started at the hospital 15 years ago with a dozen young patients who were well enough to go to the playroom in the inpatient unit. There were no DJs and no dresses, but the patients would wear their hospital attire and enjoy their own version of a ritual that other kids their age enjoyed at the local schools. Now, about 80 young cancer patients a year count down the days until the party.

This year, with the big bash only a few days away, the "question" loomed ever larger: What to wear?

The young cancer patients get to borrow the fanciest of dresses and gowns, all donated from the Society for Memorial Sloan-Kettering. The children's and associates committees of the society help to solicit the outfits from individuals and designers through a host of efforts throughout the year.

As the big day nears, pediatric staff and other volunteers work to set-up 'Promingdales' -- the in-hospital boutique. Here, the children can pick out their outfits and accessories, try everything on and get help with last-minute alterations and additions. A playful hand-painted sign that says "Promingdales" leads young prom-goers and their parents to an open area full of dresses, makeup, tuxes and other formal wear where children can "shop" for the perfect outfit.