Thursday, September 1st, kicks off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Thousands of children are diagnosed with cancer every year. Families lives are turned into turmoil as they navigate this new world of doctors, appointments, hospital stays, chemotherapy, surgeries, and much more. I previously did an article on childhood cancer (which can be found here) and wanted to do a follow-up article for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Childhood cancer research only receives 4% of government funding - which is much too little. Children can't fight cancer alone, they need others to bring light to what is happening in terms of funding. Without funding there is no research which means there are no cures. Spreading the word about childhood cancer is going to help bring about change. Each share means that at least one more person is going to see this problem and be inspired to take action. Below is a list of ways to spread awareness for childhood cancer. Although September is the official awareness month, don't let that stop you from spreading awareness all year round. Pictures also give a direct link to where the items can be purchased (if applicable).

This article is dedicated to Nathan McKean and Emma Bechert. Rest peacefully <3

1. Share this article!

As I said, the best way to get the word out is to spread the word! Share this anywhere and everywhere. This is a cause that demands to be heard.

2. Paint your nails

Gold nails are definitely attention grabbing! You are sure to get many compliments on them which is a perfect way for you to bring up what they stand for.

3. Donate

Donating is a great way to support childhood cancer research if you have the money. Every penny counts.

4. Rep some clothing

Wear clothing that promotes childhood cancer awareness and has proceeds that go into finding cures is a beautiful thing.

5. Add a Twibbon

This is another easy way to spread the word. Everybody these days are on social media. By changing your profile picture on Facebook and Twitter it helps spread the word and it's an easy way your friends to also take action and join in as well!

6. Alex's Million Mile

During the month of September Alex's Lemonade Stand encourages people to track the miles they walk, run, and ride for a total of one million miles in order to raise money for childhood cancer research.

7. Hand out gold ribbons

Buy a roll of gold ribbon and some safety pins and hand them out to people to wear on their clothes or bags. Any little spark can start a wildfire!

8. Put up posters

Go the good-old fashioned way and put up signs around town! Many businesses would be happy to show their support for the cause.

9. Put a decal on your car

Not only will this show support during September, but it shows support for the whole year! Just because childhood cancer awareness only gets one month it doesn't mean we shouldn't show awareness the rest of the year.

10. Cookies

Who doesn't love some good cookies? You can make your own and hand them out (or sell them and give the proceeds to cancer research). If you aren't a baker, check out Cookies for Kids Cancer, where each box supports cancer research.

I hope this article has inspired you to make a difference! Go gold!