The world of childhood cancer is a sobering reality that affects families worldwide. To truly understand its impact, it is important to understand cancer itself. Our body comprises various cells, each playing a unique role within our tissues and organs. However, when these cells transform and start to grow uncontrollably and spread to foreign areas of the body, this is when alarm bells ring. These abnormal cells can then invade and destroy healthy organs and tissues, leading to serious health problems.

Cancer can develop from several different cells and occur in any part of the body. There are multiple causes, making it a complex pathology to treat. It can be the result of genetics, environment, lifestyle, or a combination of all three. Cancers are divided into benign (within its normal structure- and does not necessarily require treatment) or malignant (abnormal growth and invasion), with the latter being much more difficult to treat.

financial assistance

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, with the World Health Organization reporting 9.6 million deaths in 2018. Childhood cancers are relatively rare but a diverse group of malignancies. Infants, children, and adolescents under the age of 19 are under the umbrella when termed children in medicine. These cancers have distinct characteristics and features.

Some of the most common causes of childhood cancers include leukemia, brain tumors such as Pilocytic Astrocytoma and Medulloblastomas, Neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, sarcomas, and lymphomas. Leukemia, which affects the blood and bone marrow, accounts for one-third of childhood cancers according to the American Cancer Society.

The survival rates have improved over the years despite an increase in prevalence, based on different treatment approaches which typically involve a combination of therapies tailored to the specific type and stage of cancer. These treatment approaches include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and at times surgery.

Besides the emotional and physical effects, families are often faced with the financial burden that accompanies a cancer diagnosis. With the medical costs, loss of income from taking time off, and required travel to specialists and accommodation, further place emotional stress as these caregivers feel overwhelmed with managing these financial strains.

The effects of cancer extend beyond the patient and spread to their families. Many parents report feeling overwhelmed and a sense of grief accompanying the diagnosis. According to the CCLG, 96% of parents or carers felt lonely or isolated. Siblings of the patient often experience post-traumatic stress symptoms and a poorer quality of life.

This is why it is crucial to have organizations such as the Parker project which provides a helping hand to families. Parker Project’s mission is to help reduce the burden of financial strain. Our core principle is focused on building and maintaining a community rooted in support, compassion, and resilience, ensuring that no family faces these challenges of childhood cancer alone.