Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

September: A Month of Hope, Courage, and Wishes

What is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?

Every September, the world unites to observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness of the impact of cancer on children and their families. The gold ribbon symbolizes the strength and courage of children fighting cancer across the globe, shining a light on the urgent need for support and care. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is not just a time to raise awareness—it’s a call to action, compassion, and community.

Childhood Cancer: Facts and Challenges

In Hong Kong, approximately 180 children are diagnosed with cancer each year—about one in every 10,000 children. Common types of childhood cancer include leukaemia, brain tumors, and lymphomas.

Children with cancer lose the carefree childhood that others enjoy. They endure long hospital stays and the discomfort caused by treatment side effects, facing immense physical and emotional stress. Meanwhile, parents and caregivers not only worry about their child’s health, but also grapple with changes in family life, financial burdens, and psychological pressure. The entire family has no choice but to adapt and confront the challenges that cancer brings together.

Make-A-Wish Hong Kong: Bringing Hope to Children

Among the children served by Make-A-Wish Hong Kong, over 60% are pediatric cancer patients. According to the research conducted last year by Make-A-Wish International, the Wish Journey brings lasting positive impacts to both the children and their families—including enhanced well-being, joy and happiness. Remarkably, these benefits can last for up to five years and continue to play a meaningful role even after the child has recovered.

At Make-A-Wish Hong Kong, we believe that a wish is more than a fleeting moment—it’s a powerful experience that brings strength, joy, and healing. Wishes help children look beyond their illness and believe in a brighter future.

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How You Can Help

During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, your support is crucial.
With a monthly donation of $200, your support can help us continue to fulfill the wishes of more children battling cancer, bringing hope to these little warriors and their families during challenging times.

We do not receive any government funding; all donations come from enthusiastic donors and corporates.

Wish Stories, Great Impact

Nine-year-old Wish Child Sophie was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last year. During chemotherapy, one of the medications caused side effects that left her feeling emotionally down and with an increased appetite. However, strict dietary restrictions meant she couldn’t indulge in her favourite food—including her beloved corn dogs.

The passionate artist, Sophie, channeled her cravings into her drawings. During treatment, she created a character called Corny Ketchy, a corn dog cartoon. With help from the Wish Team, Corny Ketchy was turned into an adorable plush toy, spreading positive energy in the hospital and her school… [Read full story here]