Blaze of Hope received another proclamation and this time it’s from the Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis! We are so proud and thankful that we can help raise awareness about childhood cancer. September is officially “Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in the State of FLORIDA!
CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IN FLORIDA
WHEREAS, Florida is committed to helping our children reach their full potential and lead healthy lives; and
WHEREAS, pediatric cancer, also known as childhood cancer, is the leading cause of death by disease among US children ages 0 to 18; and
WHEREAS, the average age of diagnosis of childhood cancer is 6 years old; and
WHEREAS, cancer treatment for children often differs from traditional adult treatments to take into account a child's developmental needs and other factors; and
WHEREAS, 60% of infants, children, and teens who survive will suffer from the long-term effects of comprehensive medical treatment, including secondary cancers; and
WHEREAS, the causes of childhood cancer are largely unknown, and more studies are needed to understand which treatments work best for children; and
WHEREAS, increased research, awareness, and support are needed to find a cure and provide children with the tools they need to combat cancer; and
WHEREAS, Florida launched Cancer Connect in 2022 to create a resource that serves as a "one-stop-shop" for those touched by and diagnosed with cancer, their families, and their caregivers; and
WHEREAS, Florida's 2023-2024 Framework for Freedom budget includes over $190 million in funding for cancer research and care; and
WHEREAS, Florida stands with the families and youth impacted by childhood cancer as we continue to raise awareness and promote the resilience and courage of anyone affected by cancer.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ron DeSantis, Governor of the State of Florida, do hereby extend my support to all observing September 2023 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Florida.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Florida to be affixed at Tallahassee, the Capital, this 1st day of September, in the year two thousand twenty-three.
