The History

Take yourself back to when you were eight years old. Your biggest worry was whether or not you could play outside. Such a great time in your life; yet, for some children, the reality is far different.

In 1999 the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce #1 Referral Network Group was introduced to an eight year old named Thomas Martin. Thomas was fighting brain cancer. His days were filled with chemotherapy and losing his hair, though he was always looking for the rainbow. Thomas' biggest worry was if he would have one more day, whether it was rain or shine!

The #1 Referral Network Group wanted to do something special for Thomas for Christmas that year. Although he, and we, knew he might not make it to Christmas, he still had a Christmas wish. Thomas’ wish was for us to collect hats for other children in the hospital instead of something for him. He knew how it felt to lose his hair after chemotherapy and wanted to help another child who was experiencing it. His wish was granted that year with our first mixer, which collected over 1,000 hats for Children’s Memorial Hospital.

Our Hat Mixer was born!

Thomas' infectiously upbeat personality, courage and strength touched the heart of every member. We knew the Hat Mixer had to be an annual event!

On July 12, 1999 Thomas Martin lost his battle with brain cancer but his desire to help other children battling what ultimately took his life encourages us to make each year more successful than the year before.

This year we again ask for your support. We invite you to join us for a spectacular night featuring local entertainment, silent and live auctions. Help us continue Thomas' wish and bring a piece of the rainbow into the gloomy life of a child suffering from this life threatening disease.

It's All About Kids is a 501C3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping children with cancer and their families.