This September, we’re shining a light on childhood cancer… and we need your help. This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), we’re calling on our amazing supporters to stand with us in raising awareness and vital funds for children and families affected by childhood cancer. Every September, CCAM gives us the chance to come together to recognise the strength and bravery of the children we support, to educate others about the signs and symptoms, and to shine a light on the realities of childhood cancer. Each year, around 4,000 children and young people are diagnosed with cancer in the UK, and right here in Yorkshire, that’s 150 families whose lives are turned upside down. Childhood cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in children, but its impact goes far beyond the diagnosis itself. We know that a diagnosis brings huge emotional, practical, and financial challenges. That’s why, with your help, we’re here to make sure no family faces this journey alone. From hospital support and financial grants to respite breaks and funding vital research, everything we do is only possible because of you. This September, we’re asking you to join us by taking part in our 150-mile challenge. The challenge is simple yet powerful: walk, run, cycle, swim, or wheel 150 miles throughout the month – a mile for each child who begins their cancer journey in Yorkshire each year. Every mile you complete helps shine a light on their stories and raises vital funds to support them and their families. Find out more and sign up here. You will be helping children like Harper, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in October 2022. Her Mum, Laura, reflects “Rob and I knew something wasn’t right but when you hear those words from the doctor, it’s like a punch in the gut. It’s awful to know that your two-year-old is about to embark on a fight for her life. Harper went through three rounds of chemotherapy before having a bone marrow transplant.” “Harper is nearly 18 months post-transplant now and she’s doing amazingly. Apart from a few issues due to treatment, she’s thriving. She started nursery and can’t wait to go in the mornings.” 
By taking on 150 miles, you’re not just clocking up the distance, you’re helping us fund research, provide emotional, practical, and financial support, and remind families facing childhood cancer that they are never alone.
“Candlelighters was a massive support to us. When we were in isolation, it was just Harper and I for months. It’s a really long time to go without much human contact. The Family Support Workers were a godsend. They would come in every day. We could talk about how I was feeling and what was going on, but also normal things like what we were watching on TV. Having a conversation that wasn’t ‘which scan is on the agenda today’ was really important, especially when you’re not able to talk to anyone other than the doctors and nurses.”
“We also had financial support from Candlelighters. I had to give up work, so we were reliant on Rob’s income. Going down from two incomes to one put significant strain on us. The grants Candlelighters offer are incredible. When you’re in hospital, you end up spending considerably more money to just feed yourself and get by.” 
