At Cannonball Kids’ cancer Foundation, we believe there’s a place for everyone in the fight against pediatric cancer. In our latest Game Over: c*ncer episode, we sat down with Nick and Michelle Norden—devoted parents, community leaders, and co-chairs of our Gold Gala for the past two years—to talk about what it means to show up, step up, and make an impact. Their story is a powerful reminder of the power of partnership: when people join forces—combining skills, passion, and networks—their impact multiplies far beyond what they could achieve alone.
Watch Nick and Michelle’s episode here:
Game Over: c*ncer EP32: Nick and Michelle Norden Behind the Gold Gala: The Power of Partnership in Philanthropy | 32
- Start Small, Then Take the Leap
Nick and Michelle didn’t begin their CKc journey as gala chairs—they started by simply showing up. Attending events, asking questions, and getting to know the mission gave them the foundation to take a bigger role. Their advice? You don’t have to know exactly what your contribution will be from day one. Dip your toe in, then see where your comfort and passion lead you.
- Your Skills and Passions Can Shape Your Impact
From Michelle’s perspective as a pediatrician, the fight against pediatric cancer is deeply personal—she’s seen firsthand the weight of delivering a cancer diagnosis to a child’s family. For Nick, seeing how those moments impacted Michelle drove him to act. They’ve channeled their skills and connections into both CKc leadership and broader community service—from scholarship programs for kids impacted by cancer to backpack drives for underfunded schools.
- You Don’t Need Unlimited Time—Just Commitment
Like many busy families, the Nordens juggle full-time careers, kids, and a packed schedule. But they’ve learned that finding even a little time for a cause you care about can make a big difference. Their partnership—at home and as co-chairs—made it easier to divide tasks, brainstorm over dinner, and turn everyday moments into opportunities to spread the word about CKc.
- The Power of Your Network
One of the most valuable contributions gala chairs bring is their sphere of influence. The Nordens invited friends to attend, approached local businesses for sponsorships, and built new relationships through their outreach. Often, they found people were eager to help once they heard about CKc’s mission and the urgent need for better treatments for kids with cancer.
- Balance the Hard Truths With Joy
The gala doesn’t shy away from the realities of pediatric cancer—it’s emotional, and it should be. But the Nordens understand the importance of ending the night on a note of hope and celebration. Whether it’s dancing after the fundraising program or adding playful touches like buttons and temporary tattoos, they’ve helped infuse the event with joy—a reminder that childhood should be full of moments worth celebrating.
- Once You’re In, the Journey Continues
Even as they hand over their gala chair duties, Nick and Michelle aren’t slowing down. They’re taking on a new challenge: running the 10K race at the 2026 Walt Disney World® Marathon weekend presented by State Farm as part of Team CKc’s fundraising efforts. It’s another way to combine something they love with making a tangible difference for kids fighting cancer.
Nick and Michelle’s story proves you don’t have to be a doctor or lawyer—or even have a lot of spare time—to make an impact. You just have to start. Show up. Say yes when the opportunity comes. Lean on your strengths, bring your people along, and keep finding ways to turn compassion into action.
SAVE THE DATE: The next Gold Gala will be April 11, 2026—but you don’t have to wait to get involved. Visit our Make an Impact page to see how you can join the fight today.
Know a survivor or advocate whose story needs to be shared? Email us at info@cannonballkidscancer.org to nominate a guest!
