September 2020: Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS, childhood cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children; and,

 

WHEREAS, approximately 11,050 children and adolescents under 15 years of age will be diagnosed with cancer in 2020 in the United States; and,

 

WHEREAS, 1,190 children under the age of 15 are expected to die from cancer in 2020, and many infants, children, and teens will suffer from the long-term effects of comprehensive treatment, including secondary cancers; and,

 

WHEREAS, Two-thirds of childhood cancer patients will have chronic health conditions as a result of their treatment, with one quarter being classified as severe to life-threatening; and,

 

WHEREAS, in the United States, cancer is one of the most expensive medical conditions to treat, and, as a result, families of childhood cancer patients experience financial hardship many years after the diagnosis; and,

 

WHEREAS, non-profit organizations at the local and national level, including the American Childhood Cancer Organization, are helping children with cancer and their families cope through educational, emotional, and financial support; and,

 

WHEREAS, the National Cancer Institute recognizes the unique research needs of childhood cancer and the associated need for increased funding to carry out this effort; and,

 

WHEREAS, as a result of these research efforts and improvements in health care, child death rates have decreased by 53 percent and adolescent death rates by 27 percent for cancer since 2002; and,
 

WHEREAS, it is important we continue to raise awareness of childhood cancer in our state, recognize pediatric patients’ determination and bravery to fight the battle, and improve childhood health care to enhance the quality of life for the future leaders of our state;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 2020 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan.