The Hudson Park Primary Port Rex Cubs rose to the challenge to raise awareness for International Childhood Cancer Day last Friday.
They also celebrated the 40-year anniversary of the SA Childhood Cancer Foundation (Choc), as well as the 10-year existence of Choc House.
As part of the event, Choc released a promotional video for the first time.
The video, featuring a number of young cancer survivors, is meant to serve as inspiration for those still fighting the disease.
It was shot at the Frere Hospital’s paediatric oncology ward, the Choc House and Gonubie beachfront.
Choc provincial regional manager Debbie Kleinenberg said the song featured in the video was written and composed by Angie Wild Schultz, the aunt of six-year-old cancer survivor Zoë Holloway.
“Our slogan is ‘Keeping more than hope alive’ and this video is all about the journey from being diagnosed to being a survivor. It’s all about hope,” Kleinenberg said.
The day’s entertainment included inspirational poems, songs, skits and a unique rendition of “happy birthday” to Choc. In the school’s garden, a tree with hearts was decorated to mark International Childhood Cancer Day.
“The pupils have clearly been informed about Choc as they were incredibly well-informed about childhood cancer and the challenges that patients face,” Kleinenberg said.
International Childhood Cancer Day falls annually on February 15 and is meant to raise awareness about the early detection of cancer for better treatment.
Hudson Park Primary headmaster Ian Lehy conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the children for marking the occasion.
“Thank you boys and girls for coming out in your civvies, helping Choc with International Childhood Cancer Day with the money raised – and also celebrating their 40th birthday,” Lehy said.
According to Choc, about 2,500 children should be diagnosed per year but only about 1,500 are. For those whose cancer is detected, and diagnosed, the survival rate is as low as 55%.
Kleinenberg said the video had been now been shared worldwide.
“Early detection and picking up early warning signs are key to increase the survival rate of a child,” she said.
The video is available via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbfOKjaoY94
