September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s a perfect time to bring attention and awareness to the devastation of childhood cancer. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is acknowledged by cancer organizations around the world with the hopes of raising awareness and funds for those affected. 
Here in the United States alone, the statistics are heartbreaking.
Every 3 minutes, a family hears the devastating words that their child has been diagnosed with cancer.
Every year, an estimated 15,780 children are diagnosed with cancer.
A shocking 1 in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer before their 20th birthday.
If you’re wondering what YOU can do to help, here are some suggestions locally and nationally:
Participate or Host and Event: There are options nationally or locally, but you can also think beyond this list to ways you can creatively fundraise – and involve your own kids. Host a lemonade stand? A toy sale in your front yard? If you’re interested in a more official option, you will find a few below that support advocacy, education and families of childhood cancer patients.
- PJammin for Kids With Cancer: This is a national event you can bring to your local business or school to help support the cause – by wearing PJs!
- Go Gold For Kids with Cancer:
- Badger Childhood Cancer Network: Locally, the Badger Childhood Cancer Network hosts fundraising events, such as their Super Hero Fun Run, with funds supporting families locally.
Get Involved with Advocacy: If you’re interested in supporting the cause through legislation, there are organizations you can get involved with on a local or national level. Here in Madison, the Badger Childhood Cancer Network advocates for legislation that will increase funding for research and cures for cancer. Nationally, the American Childhood Cancer Organization helps shape policy that will make childhood cancer a health priority.
- Badger Childhood Cancer Network We advocate for the needs of children with cancer and blood disorders. We support legislation at the state and local level that will increase funding for more effective and safer cures for childhood cancers and blood disorders, and for the many medical issues faced by survivors of these diseases.
- American Childhood Cancer Organization ACCO proudly serves as the largest grassroots voice for children affected by cancer and the only U.S. member of Childhood Cancer International. We are dedicated to raising awareness and shaping policy at the local, state, and federal levels to make childhood cancer a health priority.
Volunteer:
- American Family Children’s Hospital We are so lucky to have American Family Children’s Hospital right here in Madison, and they are always looking for volunteers – from helping in their Safety Center to becoming a “Buddy” to a child in the hospital, there are tons of ways to get involved and make a difference.
Donate:
- Badger Childhood Cancer Network: Help support local families in need with financial assistance. Badger Childhood Cancer Network offers a great program called “Adopt a Family” which matches a needy family with a local donor.
- American Family Children’s Hospital: Help check off an item or two from American Family’s “Wish Lists”. Many items like PlayDoh or Markers are used regularly to help cheer up a child staying in the hospital.
Spread the Word: Something as simple as following local organizations on social media can help support the cause by bringing awareness and attention to the important work they’re doing. Like or share social media posts on Facebook or Instagram, and stay informed on legislation for childhood cancer.
While no family wants to hear their child has cancer, we can do everything possible to help them feel supported through their journey. For more information, visit: