Every two minutes, somewhere in the world, a family hears the heartbreaking words, “Your child has cancer.” Here in the United States, one in five children diagnosed with cancer won’t survive. These are not just numbers; they represent lives cut short, futures stolen, and families forever changed by the loss of a child. Childhood cancer doesn’t just impact the child—it ripples through families, friends, and communities, leaving an enduring mark on everyone it touches.
This September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation is inviting you to create a ripple that will save lives. Our campaign, Create a Ripple, Save a Life, is centered around the idea that every single action, no matter how big or small, contributes to a larger movement that brings us closer to conquering kids’ cancer. Just as one drop can create a ripple that expands outward, your efforts can spark waves of change that reach far beyond what you might imagine.
How You Can Take Action
Here’s how you can create a ripple that will have a lasting impact for kids with cancer:
1. Donate
Imagine your dollar funding research that leads to a discovery in one city, sparking a breakthrough in another, ultimately saving a child’s life. That child will then have the chance to grow up, live their dreams, and become a leader for the next generation of change-makers.
2. Create a “Do What You Want” Fundraiser
Your passion can fuel change. Whether it’s hosting a bake sale, running a marathon, or organizing a game night, you can turn your favorite activity into a fundraiser for childhood cancer research. Every dollar you raise contributes to lifesaving research that could one day save a child’s life.
3. Shave Your Head (Virtually or In-Person)
Be bold, go bald! Shave your head virtually or sign up for a future head-shaving event to show solidarity with kids battling cancer. By participating, you’re not only raising funds but also spreading awareness and inspiring others to join the cause.
4. Raise Awareness with Our Social Media Toolkit
Share facts, stories, and graphics that illustrate the ripple effect of every donation, inspiring your friends and followers to get involved.
5. Buy a Limited-Edition St. Baldrick’s T-Shirt
Show your support by purchasing a limited-edition St. Baldrick’s t-shirt. Wear it proudly to raise awareness and spark conversations about the need for more research to conquer kids’ cancer.
6. Purchase a Headband of Hope
Headbands of Hope is partnering with St. Baldrick’s to create a ripple of hope for all kids with cancer. During September, for every item purchased, $1 will be donated back to St. Baldrick’s in addition to a headband that will be donated to a child.
7. Join the St. Baldrick’s Speak Up Network
Use your voice to make a difference. By joining our St. Baldrick’s Speak Up Network, you can advocate for policies and funding that support childhood cancer research. Together, we can ensure that childhood cancer remains a national priority.
The Power of One Ripple
As we embark on Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, remember that every action you take creates a ripple that has the potential to save lives. Whether you’re fundraising, shaving your head, raising awareness, or donating, you are part of a movement that is making a critical impact in the lives of children facing cancer.
Together, we can turn these ripples into waves of progress, bringing us closer to the day where every child with cancer will live a long and healthy life. Join us this September, and let’s create ripples of hope that will resonate for generations to come.
