Governor Proclaims Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2023

WHEREAS, each year in the United States, more than 16,790 children from birth to 19 years old are diagnosed with cancer, equal to about 46 childhood cancer diagnoses each day; and

WHEREAS, approximately one in 285 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer before their 20^th birthday, with this number increasing each year; 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 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, American Childhood Cancer Organization, 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, researchers and health care professionals work diligently, dedicating their expertise to educate, treat, and cure children with cancer; 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, 2023, as “CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.