Cancer Survivors: Bringing Awareness Towards Childhood Wellness
Cancer Survivor Month is a time when we come together to honor the brave children who have faced the unimaginable challenges of cancer. It’s also a time to acknowledge the strength and resilience of their families who stand by their side throughout the exhausting journey.
Families of children with cancer often shoulder an incredible burden. Emotionally and financially, they face unprecedented challenges. The constant worry, frequent hospital visits, and the strain of balancing work and caregiving can take a toll on their overall well-being. However, they remain steadfast pillars of strength, always seeking the best care and support for their loved ones.
Childhood cancer encompasses a range of different types of cancers that can affect children. Here are some common types of childhood cancers along with their associated symptoms:
Leukemia: Leukemia is the most common type of childhood cancer. It affects the blood and bone marrow. Common symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, fever, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, bone pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
Brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors: Brain tumors can occur in different parts of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor but may include headaches, vomiting, changes in vision, problems with balance or walking, seizures, and personality or behavior changes.
Neuroblastoma: This cancer develops from immature nerve cells and usually occurs in the adrenal glands (located on top of the kidneys) or in nerve tissue along the spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis. Symptoms may include a lump or mass in the abdomen, chest, or pelvis; bone pain; weight loss; fatigue; and changes in the eyes (e.g., drooping eyelid or unequal pupil size).
Wilms tumor: Also known as nephroblastoma, this is a kidney cancer primarily affecting children. Signs may include a swollen abdomen, abdominal pain, blood in the urine, fever, and high blood pressure.
Retinoblastoma: This cancer starts in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It may cause a white glow or reflection in the pupil, crossed or misaligned eyes, poor vision, or redness and swelling in the eye.
Lymphoma: Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, unexplained fever, weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats.
If you notice any persistent, unusual, or concerning symptoms in your child, it is advisable to consult your CBHA for further evaluation. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial in the management of childhood cancers.
Our 5K Color Run: Run For A Cause provides financial and emotional support for families who live with children with mental health problems in their homes, along with providing awareness for these conditions.
Be part of the cause at this year’s Color Run, and show your support towards cancer survivors. Sign up for the run now!
