When a parent of a young child is diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer, time and money that might have gone toward fun family activities are often redirected to appointments for treatment and medical bills—precisely when the need for quality time is greatest.

Rachel Antin saw families struggle with this reality first-hand as an oncology nurse at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh. In 2016, she organized a makeover, photoshoot and pizza dinner for one of her patients and her 9-year-old daughter. She has since grown her idea into the nonprofit organization, One Day to Remember.

One Day to Remember strives to provide a curated experience that is individualized for each family—AND at no cost to them. These can be at home or at local attractions. Our goal is to give families dealing with advanced-stage cancer the opportunity to make lasting, positive memories. Included in the special day, we send a professional photographer so that every family receives a commemorative photobook.