Who Are You Wearing your ribbon For This September?
Each September, CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA joins the global community in honouring International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remember, reflect, and rally in support of children and teenagers who have been diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families and support networks.
The Gold Ribbon, a symbol of hope and strength, is more than just a pin. Every ribbon holds a name. Every name holds a story. Behind each ribbon is a child, teenager, a parent, a family, a survivor, or someone who has cared for them. We ask: Who are you wearing it for?
Childhood Cancer in South Africa is a reality and remains one of the leading causes of disease-related deaths in children worldwide. In South Africa, although rare, it is the second most common cause of death in children aged 5 to 14, following accidents. Encouragingly, the national survival rate has improved to around 60%, yet it still lags behind developed countries where survival rates exceed 80%.
Too many children or teenagers are never diagnosed or are diagnosed too late. Early detection saves lives. Recognising the SILUAN Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer is critical to improving treatment outcomes and giving every child or teenager hope.
“Every ribbon is a reminder that no child, teenager or their family should face cancer alone. At CHOC, we believe in the power of collaboration, when communities, healthcare professionals, and organisations come together, we can change the outcome.,” says CHOC CEO Hedley Lewis. “This September, I invite everyone to join us in honouring the stories behind every name, recognising the early warning signs, and building a future where more children and teenagers survive and thrive.”
CHOC proudly stands alongside CCI and SIOP in supporting the global campaign #WeAllLiveIt a powerful reminder that when a child or teen is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family lives the journey. Parents, siblings, grandparents, and loved ones play an essential, often unseen role in a child’s healing. This campaign invites families, survivors, and communities to share their lived experiences. Together, we amplify the voices of those walking this path, not just the children, but everyone around them. Join the movement by sharing your story on social media with the hashtag #WeAllLiveIt.
CHOC stands besides families every step of the way, offering life-saving awareness, early detection education, and comprehensive support services. These include accommodation near treatment centres, transport, psychosocial support, and counselling for families navigating the most difficult journeys.
We are calling on you, families, communities, schools, businesses, and health professionals, to wear the Gold Ribbon this September. Raise awareness. Start conversations. Share stories.
Get Involved:
- Wear your Gold Ribbon throughout September.
- Share a name and message in honour of someone affected by childhood cancer. Your tribute will appear on CHOC’s website.
- Visit CHOC’s website to learn the SILUAN Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer.
- Donate to CHOC your support helps fund early diagnosis efforts, emotional and psychosocial support for families, accommodation near treatment centres, transport, and more.
Let your voice be part of a movement that’s bigger than all of us. Who are you wearing your ribbon for?
A survivor. A newly diagnosed teenager. A loved one. A child who never got the chance.
Let’s raise our voices, and wear our ribbons.
