September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. According to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, in the U.S., one out of every five children with cancer will not survive, and the vast majority of kids who do survive will suffer long-term side effects. It doesn’t take much to spread awareness of childhood cancer, and the smallest gesture can mean the absolute world to a child who is fighting their crucial battle.
Here’s what you can do to make a difference this September—and always:
- Spread the word
Our world is centered around social media; spreading the word can easily be done through hashtags, images, videos and captions. Also, the color gold represents childhood cancer. Wearing gold or a gold will ribbon will show support to the cause and spark curiosity. Countless individuals will follow one person’s lead, and similar to a chain reaction, the message will spread. Spreading the word that childhood cancer exists and is a serious issue is a quick and effortless way to get the message across.
- Donate
From money to hair, donating to the cause is one of the few ways to continue research and establish a path to a cure. Several hair donation organizations accept any amount of hair a person is willing to donate. In addition, numerous grocery stores, business and restaurants will ask customers to give a portion of its sales to the cause. Say “yes.” There are also countless donation websites, such as St. Baldrick’s and Children’s Cancer Research Fund, where one can donate any amount of money they choose.
- Volunteer
Time is one of our most precious treasures, so giving a small portion of time to help children in need can make a huge impact on their lives. Volunteer events may include a 5K run, book readings, rope jumping and more―there is no limit to volunteering. Starting your own fundraiser is also an option, and the money raised will fund the most promising childhood cancer research.
Cancer Facts:
Every day, seven children will die from cancer.
Childhood Cancer kills more kids than Cystic Fibrosis, Pediatric AIDs and Asthma combined.
In the last 20 years, only two cancer medications have been specifically developed for children.
To learn about Childhood Cancer and for more ways to help, visit:
American Childhood Cancer Organization www.acco.org
Children’s Cancer Research Fund www.childrenscancer.org
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org
Cure Search for Children’s Cancer curesearch.org
Choose Hope www.choosehope.com
American Cancer Society www.cancer.org
