Caroline Chang Converts Socks to 'Sleevies' to Help Pediatric Patients

Caroline Chang invented “sleevies” to help kids with cancer protect their PICC lines.

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A Cancer Mom Converts Socks to ‘Sleevies’ to Help Pediatric Patients

Caroline Chang’s life changed in 2014 when one of her kids was diagnosed with cancer.

Her son Wes was only 15 months old when he was diagnosed with stage IV high risk neuroblastoma.

He also tested positive for N-MYC amplification, which is associated with more aggressive tumor behavior.

Sleevies are colorful sleeves that protect the IV tubes (or PICC lines) that hang from their arms.

Chang created her first-ever sleevie after she noticed Wes’ PICC line hanging from his arm.

Other parents commented how cool and helpful they were, so she made some for fellow patients.

She decided to create the Etsy shop “PICCSTAR” for kids who rock a PICC line.

The sleevies are made from re-engineered adult socks that have cool designs and can even be custom-made.

She also created a “Pocket Tank” that keeps chest tubes from dangling.

On August 17th Wes took his final dose of cancer medication — three and a half years after beginning his fight.

She hopes that one day, these kids are given a chance to grow up and love life — just like her son Wes is doing today.