Savi’s Army: Carrying Forward a Legacy of Strength and Hope
Savi’s Army, a fiscally sponsored program under United Charitable, is dedicated to honoring the remarkable spirit of Savi Ella Redman. For nearly two years, she courageously fought stage IV neuroblastoma. Savi’s love for sports, music, and animals (especially horses) and her dream of becoming a veterinarian reflected her boundless energy and optimism.
At the heart of Savi’s Army is its mission to advance Savi’s legacy by giving children fighting cancer a chance to get stronger mentally, emotionally, and physically for the rest of their lives. Shannon Feaster, the program manager of Savi’s Army, plays a crucial role in this mission. With a background in public and community relations, including leading high-impact campaigns at the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, Shannon’s strategic engagement and communications expertise is essential for shaping the program’s initiatives.
The advisory board of Savi’s Army strengthens the program’s impact through a diverse range of expertise. Lisa Davis, Service Delivery Manager for NASA’s AEGIS program, contributes her skills in managing complex projects and fostering innovation. Alexys Feaster, founder of The Kinship Advisors, offers valuable insight into social impact and economic mobility, having directed significant funding and advocacy efforts. Athena Haresign, who has a background in veterinary and equestrian services and serves as managing partner at Encore Stables, supports the program’s commitment to animal welfare and fostering healing connections with horses. Additionally, Stephanie Harris, a Certified Child Life Specialist, enhances the program’s focus on emotional support and therapeutic practices for children.
Savi’s Army offers a range of programming designed to provide meaningful assistance to children battling cancer. They are committed not only to providing immediate relief but also to empowering children with cancer for long-term resilience. By addressing their mental and emotional needs alongside their physical challenges, Savi’s Army ensures that young patients can face their illnesses with hope and strength.
One of Savi’s Army’s top goals is to provide Buzzy® devices, which can help patients cope with needle fear and discomfort, to Mid-Atlantic hospitals that cared for Savi. Savi relied on her “LadyBuzz” for blood draws, chemotherapy, and other treatments during her cancer journey. In July, Savi’s Army made its first delivery of 10 DistrACTION Action Packs to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where Savi was born and diagnosed. Each pack is thoughtfully equipped with a Buzzy® and other items to distract the brain from the pain.
On September 5th, to kick off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (September), Feaster delivered 10 “Royal Buzz” butterfly-themed Buzzys to the Child Life Department at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Savi was part of a clinical trial for neuroblastoma treatment there, and she became very close with many of her care providers, including Emily Crimmins, her favorite child life specialist.
The ongoing efforts of Savi’s Army and their innovative programming are a testament to Savi’s enduring legacy, offering a beacon of support and joy to children and families in need. Each initiative is a step towards fulfilling Savi’s dream of a world where every child facing a serious illness can find strength, hope, and joy. To support Savi’s Army and to learn more about their impactful work, please visit www.SavisArmy.org.
Photos provided by Savi’s Army