Saturday, September 1, 2018

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Until Caroline was diagnosed with cancer, we didn't know that September was "Childhood Cancer Awareness Month."  We actually didn't know much about pediatric cancer at all, other than seeing St. Jude commercials...which we usually changed the channel because they're so depressing!  It didn't really affect our lives, and like most families, we were busy with work, "stressed" and worried mostly about what was relevant to our kids and family.  Then, in one moment, we suddenly entered the pediatric cancer world and became more than aware.

How did we not know this world existed before?  How did we not participate in the community and create more awareness?  How did we not know about the oncology department less than 20 miles north of our home?  Why did we not care that pediatric cancer only receives barely any federal funding for research?  

Our eyes are officially and forever opened.  We will spend the rest of our lives spreading awareness, fighting for more research, and paying forward the generosity we've received.

There are a ton of statistics to be found or quoted, but here is a good visual for general pediatric cancer awareness facts:


Here's a good visual for general Neuroblastoma:


Cancer sucks.  But, one positive thing cancer has brought into our lives: perspective.  Each day is truly a gift, and we're trying to live accordingly.  So, although you may not have a child with cancer, if you are reading this, you are part of our family, and we hope that our journey has also shared this gift of awareness with you.

Words truly cannot express the gratitude we feel in our hearts for the army of people that have stood with us these past 9 months.  We're only halfway through Caroline's treatment protocol, and will never really be over/away from the diagnosis, but we know that we will be able to keep moving forward, thanks to you all.

With much love, appreciation and awareness,
The Lantz Family
#carolinestrong
#ftgf

9 comments:

  1. We were like you had no idea about cancer. Whenmy granddaughter was diagnosed with RMS that’s when our eyes were opened. We are coming up on a year since our precious Kalyn got her wings. We now help spread the word about childhood cancer and we do a annual toy drive every September not only to raise awareness but to help all the children at Vanderbilt still fighting. Our thoughts and prayers are with Caroline and the family daily. Caroline is a true champion.

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  2. I will be praying that Caroline will do well with the new treatments and for her to adjust well to the new environment.

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  3. Unfortunately, cancer has been a big part of our family for decades. I lost both my parents & grandfather to it! Two aunties and myself are all survivors. But we were all adults when diagnosed! One doesn't expect being told that their child has cancer, and it's a shock to be told, no matter what the age! It's so much more difficult for children because their life is just beginning, and it's kinda like their innocence of simple childhood fun is taken away! Vanderbilt has done an outstanding job trying to keep the spirit within Caroline through their decorations and special events such as stem cell transplant day and Caroline's smile has been pretty continuous throughout your postings! Her resiliency is remarkable and a true blessing! I pray that the proton therapy treatment center has the same caring staff who express their love and compassion just as Vanderbilt has done. I hope that your move into the apartment in Cincinatti goes well tomorrow! It was most informative to read your statistical postings for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. It's certainly more common than most people realize! God Bless all of you! Please give Caroline a hug!

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  4. We pray as you continue on this path that God keeps His healing hand on Caroline and strength for your family and guidance for Caroline's doctors. Love you guys you are Awesome parents.

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