Afrikaanse Persvrystelling
1 September 2014: CANSA is placing the focus on childhood cancer in September by hosting its 2nd annual Golden Statue’ Awareness Campaign. CANSA staff and volunteers wear gold or yellow clothing (representing childhood cancers) and ‘freeze’ as a human statue at specific public venues countrywide – all in support of CANSA’s Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) Programme.
These CANSA human ‘statues’ aim to draw as much attention as possible, without talking, making physical or eye contact with the public. At these exhibitions, CANSA is giving free CANSA TLC bookmarks that provide information on the warning signs and symptoms of childhood cancer. The public are also encouraged to donate to CANSA’s TLC Programme, by making use of the CANSA TLC collection tins or make an online donation.
CANSA’s Acting CEO, Elize Joubert states, “No child or family should have to face cancer on their own – our CANSA TLC Programme supports not only the diagnosed child or teen, but also any siblings, family and loved ones affected by cancer. Get more information via our Golden Statue campaign, as most childhood cancers can be treated more successfully if detected early.”
CANSA TLC embraces a holistic approach to include all aspects of physical, spiritual, psychological and social wellbeing. They offer support groups, prosthetic assistance, skills development programmes and educational school programmes.
Rudi – Diagnosed with Leukaemia at 18 months
Rudi Pretorius, a bubbly 10-year old, was diagnosed with leukaemia at 18 months old. His mother, Bea explains, “On a morning like no other, I realised that Rudi was very pale and acting very differently than usual. We decided to take Rudi to the doctor and after numerous questions to the doctor, a detailed examination and blood tests, the doctor informed us that he had leukaemia. He made arrangements for us and we took Rudi to hospital the next day. Needless to say – none of us slept that night.”
“Through all the rounds of chemo, blood transfusions, bone marrow tests and the lot, we found tremendous support from the CANSA TLC staff. They were always there when we needed the support, some answers and just plain love and care. After all these years and the long and winding road, with many up’s and down’s, we are honoured to have Rudi by our side, as a cancer survivor in remission,” concludes Bea.
TLC Programme Promotes Awareness & Provides Care & Support
Says Joubert; “Through our CANSA TLC Programme, we also educate and promote awareness on childhood cancers and early detection and we hope to have more success stories – like that of Rudi. With your support, we can improve our on-going support provided to children and families affected by cancer.”
CANSA has facilities for parents whose children are undergoing treatment at the CANSA TLC Nicus Lodge at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria. They support a CANSA TLC Paediatric Oncology Ward at the Pietersburg Provincial Hospital in Polokwane offering in-house accommodation to mothers, guardians and caregivers. Recently launched were two CANSA TLC Support Rooms in Kimberley and Port Elizabeth that offer a safe space for emotional support to families. Families have the opportunity to share and receive confidential assistance at these facilities.
Detect Childhood Cancer Early
Most childhood cancers can be treated successfully, if detected early. These cancers share general symptoms with other illnesses, but if one or more persist, seek medical help urgently, as children with cancer need to receive the right treatment preferably in a paediatric oncology unit. See more re the warning signs of childhood cancer…
How You Can Support our CANSA TLC Programme
- Make sure you support the golden statue campaign during September, and raise awareness of childhood cancer & CANSA’s TLC Programme
- Support Annique’s Charity Jubilee for Young Cancer Patients – 13 Sept 2014
- Make a donation towards our online fundraising drive to purchase port-a-caths to make treatment easier for young cancer patients
- Donate basic items to families affected by cancer…
Queries CANSA
Parents in need of support are invited to join one of the many active TLC support groups, or help CANSA establish one in your area. They are also invited to join our TLC Facebook support group. For more info, call toll-free on 0800 22 66 22, or email: tlc@cansa.org.za