Kniepmann’s connection to the NCCS is deeply personal. Having experienced the impact of cancer within his own family, he was drawn to the organization’s compassionate approach to supporting children with cancer and their families.
“Like so many people, cancer has touched my life in very personal ways. My first direct experience came when my grandfather died from cancer, and later when my father was diagnosed with lung cancer and ultimately passed away at the age of 55. Watching someone you love go through that journey is one of the most difficult and traumatic experiences a family can face,” Kniepmann shared. “Those experiences shaped my appreciation for the far-reaching impact cancer has on not only the patient, but also their family, friends, and entire support system.”
As a father of two, hearing the words ‘your child has cancer’ is unfathomable. He shared, “No parent should have to endure that experience, and certainly not alone. What inspired me to become involved with the NCCS is the organization’s commitment to standing beside children and families during some of the darkest moments of their lives and providing them with support, hope, and resources when they need them most.”
Although Kniepmann initially envisioned supporting the organization as a volunteer, his involvement soon evolved into an opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors.
“My involvement with the NCCS began through my friend. Over the years, I attended several NCCS events and was struck by how powerful and emotionally impactful they were. Hearing the stories of children and families facing pediatric cancer and seeing the resilience they demonstrated left a lasting impression on me. After attending those events, I found myself wanting to do something—anything—to help. To be honest, I was thinking more along the lines of volunteering at events, helping behind the scenes, or washing dishes at the next event, whatever was needed.”
He shared, “While serving on a board wasn’t something I had initially envisioned, I quickly realized it was an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to an organization and mission that deeply resonated with me. What ultimately led me to accept the role was the chance to help advance the NCCS’s incredible work on behalf of children and families affected by pediatric cancer. It’s an opportunity I feel privileged to have.”
As he begins his tenure, Kniepmann says his immediate priority is learning from the experienced leaders, staff, and families who have shaped the organization for decades while helping expand awareness of its mission.
“I have tremendous respect for the vision that already exists within the NCCS, and at this stage I see my role primarily as listening, learning, and finding ways to contribute. The organization has been serving children and families facing pediatric cancer for decades, and there is a great deal I can learn from the people who have dedicated their time and energy to advancing that mission,” he reflected.
“What I have already seen, however, is the impact the organization has on people once they become aware of it. Whether through attending an event, hearing a family’s story, or learning about the programs NCCS provides, people quickly understand the importance of the work being done. My hope is that NCCS continues to expand its reach and visibility so that more families can benefit from its programs and support. The more people who understand the challenges these families face and the difference NCCS is making, the more opportunities we will have to raise support, strengthen the organization, and ultimately help more children and families.”
He continues, “For now, my focus is on learning, contributing wherever I can, and supporting the organization’s mission. If I can help more people discover NCCS and become passionate about its cause, I believe that success will follow.”
Kniepmann also brings a unique perspective shaped by his own family’s experience navigating the uncertainty of a potential pediatric cancer diagnosis.
“A few years ago, my son began experiencing some health issues. He was frequently tired, lightheaded, and complained of dizziness. What started as a relatively routine visit to his pediatrician eventually led us to a pediatric hematologist/oncologist. While we ultimately learned that he was anemic and not facing a cancer diagnosis, the process gave our family a glimpse into a world that many families facing pediatric cancer know all too well… Our family was fortunate. We received good news, found answers, and moved forward. Many families are not so lucky.”
That experience gave him just a small glimpse of the fear, uncertainty, and helplessness that families may feel when a child is diagnosed with cancer. It also made him appreciate the incredible strength and resilience required to keep moving forward when your child is facing the fight of their life.
“I know I cannot eliminate that pain. I am not a doctor, and I cannot change a diagnosis. What I can do is support an organization that walks alongside these families during their journey. Organizations like NCCS help ensure that families know they are not alone, and that their communities are standing with them through some of the most difficult days they will ever face. That is what drives my passion for helping children and families affected by pediatric cancer,” Kniepmann reflected.
Looking ahead, Kniepmann hopes to serve as an ambassador for the organization by sharing its mission with others and encouraging greater community involvement.
“My goal is to help share that message with others. If I can help raise awareness, start conversations, and introduce more people to the organization’s work, that impact begins to spread. One person tells another, who tells another, and before long the circle of support continues to grow. Advocacy does not always require a microphone. Sometimes it starts with a conversation. I hope to be a visible and enthusiastic voice for the NCCS, helping spread the awareness and passion that others have shared with me. The more people who understand the organization’s mission, the more opportunities we have to support families and expand our impact,” he said.
For those considering supporting the organization, Kniepmann offers a simple message: “Come to one event. Just one. You won’t be considering after that, you’ll be doing.”
As he begins his service on the Board, Kniepmann expressed gratitude for the opportunity and those who make the organization’s mission possible.
“I would simply like to express my gratitude. I am grateful to the families who have trusted NCCS to be part of their journey, to the donors and volunteers who make the organization’s work possible, and to the board members and staff who have dedicated so much of their time and energy to this mission. I am also grateful for the opportunity to serve. Joining the NCCS Board is both an honor and a responsibility that I do not take lightly, and I look forward to learning from those around me and contributing however I can. Most of all, I am grateful for organizations like NCCS that remind us of the incredible resilience of children and families facing childhood cancer, and of the difference we can make when we come together to support one another.”