Let’s Talk About Childhood Cancer: What You Need to Know and How You Can Help
When we hear about cancer, we often think of the elderly, or maybe adults battling long, hard-fought journeys. But childhood cancer is a conversation many shy away from perhaps because it’s painful, or maybe because people aren’t aware of how widespread it is. Today, I want to open up a dialogue, not to focus on the sorrow, but to bring awareness, support, and action into the spotlight.
Did you know that nearly 400,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer each year? Behind every number is a child who had dreams of running on the playground, coloring outside the lines, or becoming an astronaut. And behind them stands a family, facing a storm they never imagined. For many, life after diagnosis changes instantly: hospital visits replace playdates, and treatment schedules overshadow family dinners.
But childhood cancer isn’t just a private fight, it’s a societal one. Here’s where the conversation needs to begin:
What Can We Do to Support Families?
Listening Without Fear: Parents of children with cancer often feel isolated. Knowing that someone is there to listen, without needing to “fix” anything, can be a lifeline.
Spreading Awareness: Childhood cancer research is underfunded compared to adult cancers. Just sharing facts or stories helps bring attention to the issue and fuels momentum for change.
Community Involvement: Local and online communities can make a huge impact—whether through donations, meal deliveries, or simply spreading the word about fundraisers.
Why We Need to Talk About This
Silence often creates distance. But when we speak about childhood cancer, we build a bridge of understanding and empathy. We learn how to be better supporters, advocates, and friends to those walking this difficult road. One of the reasons I visit the hospital and spend time with families is to remind them that they’re not alone in this journey. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary because no family should ever feel abandoned or forgotten during such a difficult time. Being there also gives me the opportunity to listen and understand their greatest needs, which helps shape and improve the support our foundation provides.
Your Voice Matters
I’d love to hear from you, what questions do you have about childhood cancer? Are you interested in knowing how to help locally or globally? If you’ve experienced the journey personally, what has support meant to you along the way?
Let’s start a conversation that matters. Let’s shine a light on what so many families are facing and together, let’s work toward hope, progress, and healing.
I guess I never looked at it that way. Your right, every one's body is different and is affected differently. It would be hard to tell what truly causes these things. Thanks so much for chatting with me. I absolutely love your organization. I am not sure if you remember me or not but last year you helped our family when we were in a really bad spot. God bless you for all you do!
I would like to get your thoughts on if you think vaccines are causing some of the increase in children being diagnosed with cancer.