Lord Mayor of Dublin hosts childhood cancer families on International Childhood Cancer Day
Children with cancer and survivors of childhood cancer attended a special afternoon tea at the Mansion House today, hosted by the Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain to mark International Childhood Cancer Day.
Every year, 379 children, adolescents and young adults (aged 0 – 24) are diagnosed with cancer in Ireland1. While Ireland has a high survival rate, it often comes at a cost, as the harsh treatments necessary to save children’s lives can result in late effects and long-term impacts on their physical and mental health. Cancer accounts for one in four deaths in children aged 1-14 years.2
Childhood Cancer Ireland is a national charity solely dedicated to supporting children and young people with cancer, survivors and their families, throughout their cancer experience. The charity marked International Childhood Cancer Day at the Mansion House to help raise awareness and understanding of the challenges that children face, both during and after treatment.
Welcoming Childhood Cancer Ireland and its guests to the Mansion House, Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain said:
“Today I had the privilege of meeting an inspirational group of children, young people, their families and the families of children who have sadly passed away from cancer. It’s so important to see charities like Childhood Cancer Ireland supporting not only the child or young person who is sick or recovering, but their whole family and that this support extends into bereavement. They may not realise it right now, but the bravery of these children and young people, and that of their families, is astounding and the impact of this afternoon will stay with me throughout my term of office.”
Laura Cullinan, CEO of Childhood Cancer Ireland and the parent of a childhood cancer survivor:
“Events like this help to strengthen our community by bringing parents and young people with a shared experience together, helping us to find power and strength in our collective voice. As a parent and survivor-led charity, we understand how a diagnosis of childhood, adolescent or young adult cancer pulls the rug from under the entire family without warning. When that happens, Childhood Cancer Ireland is there, giving families the strength they need every step of the way.
One of our key aims is to ensure that survivorship and the long-term impacts of a cancer diagnosis and treatment, which impact both physical health and emotional wellbeing, are recognised and supported in both policy and practice. We are grateful to Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain for inviting us here today to mark International Childhood Cancer Day.”
