Updated: Sep. 17, 2023 | Originally Published: Sep. 13, 2023
When a parent hears the word “cancer” in relation to their child, it can evoke unimaginable fear. Each year, approximately 175,000 children under the age of 14 face this daunting reality. According to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, cancer stands as the foremost cause of disease-related mortality beyond infancy among children in the U.S. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and support.
While advancements in treatment mean that over 80% of children diagnosed with cancer can become long-term survivors, there remains a significant portion who do not share this fortune. The impact of a cancer diagnosis extends beyond the child; it reverberates through the entire family. Parents often have to take extended leaves from work to care for their child, while siblings experience anxiety and disruption in their daily lives. As families navigate through a world filled with tests and treatments, they may also face the challenge of traveling long distances for specialized care, leading to prolonged separations.
In addition to these emotional and logistical challenges, funding for childhood cancer research remains drastically insufficient. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) allocated $4.93 billion in 2015, yet only about 4% of this funding—approximately $198 million—was directed towards childhood cancer research. Consequently, many organizations depend on private donations to continue their vital research efforts.
Ways to Support Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
September is designated as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and there are numerous ways to support families facing this unimaginable challenge. Several remarkable organizations are dedicated to combating childhood cancer, but they require your help in the form of donations and social media engagement. Every child battling cancer deserves a fighting chance, and here are some organizations making strides in this area:
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Founded in 1962 by actor Danny Thomas, St. Jude was established with the promise that no parent would ever have to worry about paying for their child’s treatment. This hospital treats around 8,000 children annually at no cost to families, thanks to generous donations from supporters worldwide. Their mission is to ensure that “no child dies in the dawn of life.”
Lemonade for Life
Inspired by Alexandra Scott, diagnosed with neuroblastoma as a toddler, this initiative encourages individuals to host lemonade stands to raise funds for childhood cancer research. Alexandra’s efforts resulted in over $150 million raised, funding more than 800 research projects across various institutions.
Family Support Programs
Organizations like Ronald McDonald House Charities provide essential support for families during lengthy treatment protocols. They offer low-cost housing, meeting spaces for families, mobile healthcare, and grants for research.
If financial contributions are not possible, consider donating your time. St. Jude often hosts events that rely on volunteers, while Alex’s Lemonade Stand encourages community participation. You can also collect soda can tabs for Ronald McDonald Houses, turning recycling into vital funds.
Sharing your contributions on social media can inspire others to join the cause. Every little bit helps, and families coping with childhood cancer need ongoing support. Finding the right charity to support can be challenging, but resources like Charity Watch can help you make informed decisions about your donations.
For those interested in family planning, consider checking out this resource about home insemination techniques, and learn more about fertility treatments at March of Dimes.
Summary
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a crucial time to support families grappling with the impact of a cancer diagnosis. Organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Alex’s Lemonade Stand offer valuable resources and support, but they need our help. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, every action counts. Together we can create a brighter future for children facing cancer.