September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), a time when communities across the nation come together to honor and support children battling cancer. Various events and fundraisers are being organized to raise awareness, generate funds for pediatric cancer research, and motivate families with healthy children to lend their support to those facing challenging circumstances. For parents like Sarah, whose son Leo was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at just 20 months, this month is also an opportunity to partake in one of the numerous St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® Walk/Run events taking place nationwide.
St. Jude: Leading the Fight Against Childhood Cancer
St. Jude, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is at the forefront of the fight against childhood cancer. The facility treats over 7,000 patients annually, ensuring that no family receives a bill for treatment, housing, food, or travel expenses. For Sarah, this support was invaluable. “When Leo was diagnosed with ALL, I felt completely lost. But the moment I stepped into St. Jude and witnessed the hope and healing surrounding us, I found solace. Knowing we wouldn’t have to worry about medical bills allowed us to focus solely on Leo’s recovery.” Thanks to ongoing research at St. Jude, the survival rate for ALL has skyrocketed from 5% in 1980 to over 90% today.
History and Impact of St. Jude
Founded in 1962 by actor Danny Thomas, St. Jude provides treatment for some of the most severe childhood cancers and sickle cell disease, accepting patients regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or ability to pay. Their research extends beyond pediatric cancer, contributing to advancements in understanding ALS, malaria, and diabetes. Notably, St. Jude is the only center dedicated exclusively to children that offers proton therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that uses high-energy protons to target tumors while sparing healthy tissue. This innovative approach is effective for a range of cancers, including brain tumors and various solid tumors, with expectations that by 2018, 80% of children undergoing radiation at St. Jude will benefit from proton therapy.
Leo’s Journey
If you met Leo today, a vibrant 5-year-old enjoying life and currently in remission, you would never guess the battles he has fought. Dr. Mark Williams, a physician at St. Jude, remarks, “Witnessing the transformation of brave children like Leo is incredibly rewarding. Our ability to provide care without financial barriers is crucial, and it’s made possible by the generous support from the community.”
Join the Fight Against Childhood Cancer
This September, consider joining the fight against childhood cancer. Find a St. Jude Walk/Run in your area and help raise awareness and funds, with a goal of $11 million this year alone. “At St. Jude, we are committed to achieving the highest survival rates for our most challenging cases,” Dr. Williams adds. “It’s vital to spotlight the fact that cancer is still the leading cause of disease-related deaths in children. Together, we can make a difference.” To discover a St. Jude Walk/Run near you, visit St. Jude Walk/Run or join Leo’s team, Leo’s Legacy.
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Conclusion
In summary, September is a critical month for raising awareness about childhood cancer. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital plays a pivotal role in this fight, providing comprehensive care and innovative treatments to children in need. By participating in local events and fundraising efforts, we can all contribute to the mission of ensuring that no child faces cancer alone.