September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Pediatric cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death among children, with 1 in 285 children in the United States expected to be diagnosed by their 20th birthday. Survivors often face long-term health challenges, as two-thirds experience chronic conditions, and one-quarter suffer severe or life-threatening effects from treatment. Despite the urgency, childhood cancer remains grossly underfunded and under researched, with only four new FDA-approved treatments developed specifically for children over the past 20 years.

Vice Chairman Carl Zalak highlighted local efforts to bring hope to children in treatment:
"Jared Peltz has a foundation that helps build carts for those in the cancer unit at UF Health Shands Hospital. The Kaitlin's Continuing Smiles Foundation was created in honor of his daughter. He and his family recognized that having games available to the children in the hospital brought them joy. Through the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County and a company called Streetlight they are able to provide smiles to those in need."

The proclamation urges citizens to support affected families, raise awareness, advocate for increased research and funding, and work toward treatments and cures. Community participation is vital to helping families impacted locally and across the nation.

The county commission encourages all citizens, organizations, and community leaders to observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by learning more about pediatric cancer, supporting families, and advocating for increased research to fight this disease.

To learn more about Kaitlin's Continuing Smiles Foundation and other ways to support our community's nonprofits, visit the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County at OcalaFoundation.org.