Throughout many towns, cities and states across our country, September has been declared Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
On Nov. 27, 2004, my then 8-year-old son Timmy was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor. Never in my life did I personally know a child with cancer. It is a world I never knew existed. Cancer is such a horrible disease in anyone, but in a child it is heartbreaking.
For months, I could not even say the word cancer. The word terrified me. A diagnosis of cancer causes so much heartache and tears for everyone who is a part of that child’s life. How and why does a child get cancer?
It is an unbelievable fact that cancer is the No. 1 disease killer of children. Instead of being a carefree child, my son was undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.
Children continue to be diagnosed with cancer every day. I honestly do not know if we are closer to a cure. I admire every family that raises money for research. I thank every family who donates money to children’s cancer foundations.
Research and dedicated doctors will hopefully rid the world of this disease that takes our precious children away.
Just as important as raising money toward research is raising awareness. More people need to realize there is a world out there where children of all ages battle cancer so bravely.
If you see someone wearing a gold ribbon, that person probably knows a child with cancer. The gold represents childhood cancer awareness and the flame of hope that burns for all of them.
My son Timmy died April 11 at the age of 10. Timmy was a sweet, happy and loving child. He fought a courageous battle, but cancer won. I invite you to see the face of childhood cancer at Timmy’s Internet Web site. It is www.caringbridge.org/nj
/timmyp.
More must be done so we can reach the day when every child with cancer can be guaranteed a cure.
Susan Pauxtis
Middletown