How to Help During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Each September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month shines a light on the brave children and families facing pediatric cancer. Every single day, approximately 44 children are diagnosed with cancer. 1 in 5 of those children does not reach the 5-year survival milestone. Despite these statistics, childhood cancer research funding pales in comparison to funding for adult cancers.

There's so much more we can do to support these kids, from fundraising to spreading the word and advocating for better research and treatments. Here are some impactful ways you can help during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month:

Donate to childhood cancer research

Research is critical in the fight against childhood cancer, but it’s often underfunded. In fact, just 4% of the federal cancer research budget is dedicated to childhood cancer. At Lurie Children’s, our multidisciplinary team of physician-scientists conducts various research projects focused on improving treatment for children with hard-to-treat cancer and blood disorders through the Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute. When you donate to Lurie Children’s, you’re helping to accelerate progress towards better treatments and cures. Even small contributions can make a big difference. To learn more about directing your gift to fund cancer research or other cancer programs, contact Lurie Children’s Foundation at 312.227.7500 or donationinquiries@luriechildrens.org.

Host a fundraising event

Get creative and organize a fundraiser to raise both awareness and funds for childhood cancer. You can host a bake sale, a fun run, a virtual event, or even a community-wide awareness day. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to participate and contribute. If you're unsure where to start, reach out to our helpful Community Fundraising team who can guide you through the process and help you find ways to support families during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. 

Support families affected by childhood cancer

When someone you care about is coping with a difficult diagnosis, it can be difficult to know how to help. We’ve shared some advice on how to best support someone or a family in the wake of cancer diagnosis or treatment.  Making specific offers to help like providing childcare, delivering food, picking up mail, feeding pets or watering plants can be very meaningful. You can also help by taking up the cause with them or on their behalf. You can start a fundraiser or make a gift in their honor to help fund research and support families.   

Participate in a walk or run for childhood cancer

Lurie Children’s hosts several events throughout the year that support patients and families. The Chicago Triathlon Corporate Challenge benefiting Lurie Children’s takes place in August and raises vital funds for the Center of Cancer and Blood Disorders at Lurie Children’s and Run for Gus, our annual 5K Run/1 Mile Walk, takes place in July and directly supports Lurie Children’s Brain Tumor Center. In addition, we have our annual cause walk, several running programs, including our Chicago Marathon team, and other events throughout the year that support our families. By participating in these events, you’re not only showing your support for patients and families, but you’re also contributing to the vital funding needed to find cures and better treatments.

Advocate for more childhood cancer research funding

Pediatric cancer research only receives a small portion of federal cancer research funding. One way to help is by advocating for increased funding and awareness. Contact your local representatives to urge them to prioritize childhood cancer research in the budget. You can also join advocacy groups or sign petitions that push for better resources and care for children with cancer.

Wear gold for kids fighting cancer

Gold is the color of childhood cancer awareness, and by wearing gold, you’re showing your support for kids fighting cancer. Consider organizing a "Go Gold" day in your community, school, or workplace where everyone wears gold to raise awareness. 

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month offers each of us the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the fight against pediatric cancer. Whether you choose to raise funds, join an event, or simply spread awareness, every effort counts. By coming together as a community and supporting brave children and their families, we can bring hope, accelerate research, and work toward a healthier future for every child facing cancer. 

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