Pediatric Cancer Patients Get to Celebrate Very Special Prom

— -- Around 100 pediatric cancer patients got to enjoy their own version of prom thrown at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York Thursday, complete with makeup artists and donated tuxes and gowns.

In its 25th year, the Annual Spring Prom is a special night for patients grappling with cancer treatments. This year attendees ranged in age from 5 months to 30 years, including older patients originally diagnosed as children and teenagers.

"It's a great [way] to celebrate and a day of fun," said Rachel Corke, program coordinator for the pediatrics department. "No one is really worried if they have an IV tube in their arm or their chest...you can still wear a gorgeous dress.

"If you have no hair you can wear a headband if you want."

Gowns and tuxes were donated for the patients and hair stylists along with makeup artists were on hand in case anyone wanted to try out a new look.

"Kids who haven't gotten out of bed get up and get dressed to enjoy the celebration," said Corke. "We’re able to bring the party to the patient if we need to."

There was even a very special staff "King and Queen" of the event, to honor the hardworking medical staff who care for the patients.

Corke said the party isn't just for the patients but for the staff and the families to see the patients get to have a little fun, while at the hospital.

"It's a real highlight [for] our staff to see kids having a good time away from purely clinical setting," she said.