September is designated as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), a time when communities nationwide come together to raise awareness, fund pediatric cancer research, and encourage families with healthy children to make a positive impact for those facing greater challenges. For parents like Laura, whose daughter Sophie was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at just 18 months old, it represents an opportunity to engage in one of over 60 annual Walk/Run events organized by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® across the country.
Fortunately for Sophie’s family, St. Jude was there during their most critical time. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, St. Jude is at the forefront of the fight against childhood cancers, treating more than 7,000 patients each year. Remarkably, no family receives a bill for treatment, housing, food, or travel expenses while their child is treated there.
Laura shared her experience, noting, “The day Sophie was diagnosed was the most terrifying moment of my life. But walking into St. Jude and seeing the hope for our future, knowing that children can be cured here, was a huge relief. The fact that I never have to worry about medical bills or hesitating to reach out for help is such a blessing.” Research breakthroughs made at St. Jude have dramatically increased the survival rate for ALL from a mere 5% in 1980 to over 90% today.
Founded in 1962 by actor Danny Thomas, St. Jude provides treatment for some of the most challenging cancers and diseases, including sickle cell disease, regardless of a patient’s race, religion, or ability to pay. Their research extends beyond pediatric oncology, contributing to advancements in understanding conditions like ALS, malaria, and diabetes. Notably, St. Jude is home to the only pediatric proton therapy center dedicated exclusively to children.
The state-of-the-art $99 million facility employs high-energy protons to target and shrink tumors while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissues. Proton therapy is utilized for various conditions, including brain tumors, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and solid tumors like Ewing’s sarcoma and neuroblastoma. By 2018, it was anticipated that 80% of children receiving radiation therapy at St. Jude would benefit from proton beam therapy.
If you encountered Sophie today, a vibrant 4-year-old twirling in her favorite fairy costume and currently in remission, you would never guess the battle she once faced. Richard C. Shadyac Jr., CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude, emphasized the importance of community support: “Seeing the beautiful child Sophie has become and knowing her bright future is possible because of public support is invaluable.”
This September, take part in the fight against childhood cancer by participating in a St. Jude Walk/Run event near you. With a fundraising goal of $11 million, these events aim to shine a spotlight on pediatric cancer issues. Shadyac remarked, “At St. Jude, we achieve the highest survival rates for the most challenging cancers. We are continuously striving to improve these rates. In September, we aim to raise global awareness about cancer being the leading cause of disease-related death in children. We must unite in raising funds and awareness until no child succumbs to cancer.” To locate a St. Jude Walk/Run near you, visit St. Jude Walk/Run or consider joining Sophie’s team, Sophie’s Journey.
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In summary, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the need for continued support and research in pediatric oncology. By participating in events and raising awareness, we can contribute to a future where fewer children face the challenges of cancer.
Keyphrase: Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
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