WHEREAS, childhood cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children in the United States, and an estimated 15,950 children and adolescents ages birth to 19 years old will be diagnosed with cancer in 2022; and
WHEREAS, an estimated one in 285 children will develop cancer before the age of 20; and
WHEREAS, the early diagnosis of childhood cancer is often hampered by nonspecific symptoms shared by common childhood conditions, causing high rates of childhood cancer patients to be diagnosed late and with metastatic disease; and
WHEREAS, one in five children who receive a new diagnosis of childhood cancer already live in poverty; and
WHEREAS, one in four families lose more than 40 percent of their annual household income as a result of childhood cancer treatment-related work disruption, while one in three families face other work disruptions such as having to quit work or change jobs; and
WHEREAS, a diverse legion of non-profit organizations at the local, state, and national levels, including Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas, the American Cancer Society, and Claire’s Army, help children with cancer and their families break down financial barriers to treatment while providing critical research funds and family support; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina commends the many advocates, researchers, and health care professionals working to improve the lives of families affected by childhood cancer; and
WHEREAS, too many children are affected by this deadly disease, and more must be done to raise awareness and find a cure;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim September, 2022, as “CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.