Full Breakdown
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: Community Efforts and Personal Stories
9/14/2025, 11:20:08 AM
La Palmera Mall's Ready Set Gold Events
In Corpus Christi, Texas, La Palmera Mall is collaborating with the Ready or Not Foundation to raise funds for pediatric brain tumor research through a series of family-friendly events called Ready Set Gold. Throughout September, which is recognized as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the mall hosts free events every Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Activities include fall arts and crafts, and a central feature is a 10-foot tree adorned with golden leaves, symbolizing childhood cancer awareness. Jacqueline Black, co-founder of the initiative and a cancer survivor, highlighted the necessity for ongoing research into childhood cancers.
Community Support in Laredo
In Laredo, the United Independent School District (UISD) and the nonprofit Smiles from Heaven have declared September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative was marked by a press conference attended by the Martinez family, who recently lost their son Peter to medulloblastoma, a type of brain tumor. Smiles from Heaven, founded by Ray and Betsy Sanchez after losing their daughter Bella to leukemia, supports nearly 100 local families with various services. UISD encourages the community to wear yellow every Friday in September to promote awareness.
Personal Stories of Resilience
Callie Dorfman, a survivor of brain cancer, reflects on her experiences at Camp Feliz, a camp for children with cancer. She emphasizes the importance of community and support, stating, "I just want to be a light like my counselors were for me." This year, an estimated 15,000 children in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer, underscoring the significance of awareness and support networks.
Advocacy and Awareness Initiatives
Franklin, a survivor of osteosarcoma in Ghana, is using his voice to advocate for children with cancer, emphasizing the need for awareness and support. His story is part of a broader initiative by World Child Cancer, which aims to amplify voices and raise awareness during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Blood Donation Campaigns
ImpactLife is urging the public to donate blood and platelets during September, as these are critical for the treatment of many pediatric cancer patients. Dr. Daniela Hermelin, chief medical officer at ImpactLife, stated, “Blood is medicine,” highlighting the essential role of blood transfusions in cancer treatment.
Phillies' Childhood Cancer Awareness Night
The Philadelphia Phillies held their annual Childhood Cancer Awareness Night, celebrating the courage of children battling cancer. The event featured local children who have faced cancer, including Chloe Winters and Ryan Newman, who participated in various on-field ceremonies. The night served as a tribute to the resilience of these young warriors and their families.
Conclusion
September serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against childhood cancer, with communities rallying together to raise awareness, support families, and advocate for research. Personal stories of resilience and community initiatives highlight the importance of continued efforts in the fight against this disease. As Andrew Mullins, whose son Pax is undergoing treatment for neuroblastoma, noted, “There are many families with children who are fighting cancer... we’re not alone.”
