Kids Cancer PT Communications

Chapter One: Welcome

My Day is Always Better with You!

Thank you for visiting Kids Cancer PT Communications! We're excited to show you what we're all about.

Welcome video

Chapter Two: Mission

Why We're Here

Cancer is an adult word. The treatments, the terminology, the waiting rooms — they were all designed for grown-ups. But when a child is diagnosed, they inherit that adult world overnight.

PT Dan saw this gap every single day. Kids staring at ceilings during physical therapy, overwhelmed by words they couldn't pronounce and feelings they couldn't name. So he started doing what came naturally — he told stories.

Stories about brave explorers on cosmic adventures. Stories where the scary machine was actually a friend. Stories where the hero looked just like them.

Kids Cancer PT was born from those bedside moments — a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to educating, entertaining, and encouraging those affected by childhood cancer and long-term illness.

Educate

Practical pediatric oncology PT tips families can understand and use at home.

Entertain

Videos, challenges, and cheerful characters that make movement feel like play.

Encourage

Hope-filled stories and progress moments that help kids feel seen.

Illustration of PT Dan waving

Chapter Three: Meet PT Dan

Meet PT Dan

Dr. Dan Steventon, affectionately known as PT Dan, is a board-certified oncology physical therapist dedicated to helping children with cancer regain strength, confidence, and the freedom to move. Based at Sanford Children's Specialty Clinic in Sioux Falls, Dan specializes in pediatric oncology rehabilitation — working with young patients before, during, and after treatment to support their physical and emotional recovery.

With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and certification as a Clinical Specialist in Oncology Physical Therapy, Dan brings advanced training and years of experience to every patient encounter. Inspired by the gentle presence of Fred Rogers and the joyful spirit of Patch Adams, Dan's philosophy centers on showing up with consistency, kindness, and creativity — whether he's guiding a child through physical therapy, teaching students, or hosting community events like "Christmas at the Castle." In 2023, he was honored with the APTA Oncology Debbra Flomenhoft Humanitarian Award for his dedication to the pediatric cancer community, and in 2026 he was a recipient of the American Cancer Society award.

Beyond the clinic, Dan shares hope and knowledge through Kids Cancer PT Communications, social media platforms, and interviews and teaching engagements across the country. Whether on screen or at bedside, he's committed to helping kids not just survive cancer — but live fully through it.

"Every child I meet teaches me something about courage, and I am honored to be part of their healing process."
Dan Steventon, PresidentChad Postmus, Vice-PresidentCorey Bruning, TreasurerMelissa Steventon, SecretaryJason Ahrendt, Board MemberRob Keisacker, Board Member

Chapter Three: Meet PT Dan

The real magic is what families remember.

"Dan does amazing with kids. Our long stay at the hospital was made all the better when Dan came around to work with my daughter."
- Cassandra Rollman
"Dan is the best, my daughter absolutely loves him. He has helped her so much since she started chemo."
- Trisha Grant
"PT Dan brought Harpie the sun on even our darkest days. If she was in a funk, PT Dan was the only one who could pull her out."
- Sarah Skajewski
PT Dan Thinks You Can with rocket, panda, unicorn, and PT Dan

Chapter Four: TV Show

PT Dan Thinks You Can

Imagine a world where a friendly physical therapist guides young explorers through cosmic challenges — each one a playful metaphor for what they're actually going through. That's the show PT Dan is building. It's a live-streamed, interactive TV show built specifically for kids battling cancer. Kids don't just watch, they participate, move, choose, and help direct the adventure in real time. Watch the video below to get a glimpse into the world of "PT Dan Thinks You Can".

Pitch video

Chapter Five: Podcast

PT Dan's Friendship Files

PT Dan's audio adventures are created especially for kids facing cancer — and for the families, friends, and caregivers walking alongside them. Through inventive stories, lovable characters, and gentle humor, each episode explores big feelings like fear, loss, courage, and grief in ways kids can understand. As you imagine with us, may you be reminded that adventures are always better together...and no one is exempt from hope.

Chapter Six: In the News

The community already knows PT Dan shows up.

St. Baldrick's

Fighting childhood cancer, one shave at a time.

Dan supports St. Baldrick's as both a shavee and an organizer, helping bring families, barbers, hospital staff, law enforcement, and local supporters together for research and solidarity.

"The least I can do is sit in a chair, lose some hair, and raise money to make sure better treatments exist for them tomorrow."

Chapter Seven: Ways to Help

Join us in making a difference.

Donations, sponsorships, merchandise, and simple shares all help Kids Cancer PT reach more families with encouragement and practical support.