September is more than the start of fall trends, seasonal drinks, and football. It's Childhood Cancer Awareness Month! In these 30 days we recognize and create awareness for the 10,380 kids under 15 years old that will be diagnosed with childhood cancer this year, 40,000 children undergoing treatment this year, and over 380,000 kids who have survived and conquered it. Not only is it important to create awareness, but to also lend a helping hand. Though we are colleges students (and most likely can barely afford groceries each week), there are ways we can go about supporting without a monetary donation. Sometimes physically helping creates a bigger sense of satisfaction within, and brings a bigger smile to your face seeing the impact as opposed to a check. Go ahead and read up on some ways to really make an impact this September for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month!
Make it gold
Gold is the color for pediatric cancer. Go ahead and take your social media and make it a platform for awareness! Find a sweet Facebook filter or Instagram a gold ribbon. Let your followers know you're a supporter.
Be a part of a volunteer event
Run a 5K, help out with a fashion show, or fishing tournament that is going on in your local community. Though it isn't in September, my heart felt so full after helping out with Camp Happy Days this summer. It was a whole week dedicated to kids who have and are affected by cancer. Look online and see how you can give to the childhood cancer community and make an impact!
Donate to their Wish List
Depending on where you live you can find organizations, foundations, and hospitals that have Wish Lists for the kids! These lists can have anything on them from coloring books, to Wii consoles, to hats, capes, and pop-up tents. What fun is a hospital room without company and a solid color book?
Volunteer your time
Plenty of hospitals appreciate the time you can give to spend with the kids. Go online and look for local places to visit. A lot of programs will have you help with crafts, puppet shows, reading with them, or even creating your own events for them! This is a great way to spend time with them and create memories for all of you!
Donate hair
Wigs can be a big confidence boost when chemo starts, or even a security blanket. Take what you have and pass it forward! After looking into several places to donate, they all ask for different length requirements. Wigs for Kids is an organization that asks for 10 inches of untouched hair. Take this chance to not only get a new look but give to someone what you're fortunate to have. Remember, it's your choice to have those locks, for them it's most likely not.
There are plenty of other ways to lend a hand, but however you choose to support Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, know that you're making an impact and a ripple effect! Take action, be selfless, and help find a cure.
