Why do we need to start a childhood cancer foundation?

Many parents who have been through the childhood cancer journey have a need to give back either to honour their child, to support other families facing the same journey, to address the unmet needs in the health system, to raise awareness about childhood cancer, to raise funds for treatment or supportive care programmes, to provide  sense of purpose and healing, to build a supportive community, to advocate for the children’s rights, to fill the gap left by their own experience or the contribute to research and improved outcomes. 

In some cases, nurses, doctors or registrars would visit or study in other countries or parents might go there for treatment.   There they would meet a well-managed childhood cancer foundation that they might not have or know about  in their own country and might have the need to pay it forward. 

The main requirements for getting a group going are enthusiasm, long-term commitment and the vision to see how things might be made better.  The most important thing to recognize is that you cannot do it alone and in building a successful and sustainable childhood cancer foundation, all people involved need to work together.  

It is important to note that before anyone starts a childhood cancer foundation, they first need to find out if there is not another foundation in their country.  Every country has its own legal frameworks on how the ministries of health and social development operate.  Working together in the same country ensures collaboration in working together for the common good of the children and families by combining or coordinating efforts to increase impact and avoid duplication.

Parents of children with cancer often feel isolated, anxious, or overwhelmed. Being part of a foundation connects them with others who understand their journey.

Sharing experiences reduces feelings of isolation and provides reassurance that they are not alone.

Peer support can improve coping strategies, resilience, and mental well-being.

Foundations often provide accurate, up-to-date information about childhood cancer, treatment options, side effects, and survivorship care.

Parents can learn practical strategies for managing their child’s care, schooling, and social needs.

Some foundations offer financial, educational, or logistical assistance, such as help with transportation, accommodation, or therapy costs.

Being part of a foundation gives parents a voice to advocate for better healthcare policies, early detection programs, and access to treatment.

They can influence research priorities or hospital policies, ensuring that the needs of children and families are recognized.

Advocacy empowers parents, helping them feel more in control during a very stressful time.

Many parents find purpose in supporting others after experiencing the challenges of childhood cancer.

Founding or contributing to a foundation allows parents to “give back,” support other families, and raise awareness about childhood cancer.

This involvement can help parents process grief, fear, and uncertainty by turning their experience into something meaningful.

Foundations often connect families with medical professionals, researchers, and other stakeholders.

This networking can open doors to clinical trials, research updates, or specialized care that might otherwise be inaccessible.

Collaboration with other parents and organizations strengthens the overall childhood cancer support system.