Candle Lighting Lights Up Hope

The most devastating news a parent can get is confirmation that their child has cancer, a disease that kills more children than cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, AIDS, asthma and juvenile diabetes combined, according to the National Cancer Institute. Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California is a Loma Linda-based non-profit organization that organizes social gatherings and special events to give families the emotional strength and support they need to get through the most physically and emotionally challenging period of their lives. September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Childhood Cancer Foundation takes this opportunity to shine a light of HOPE on childhood cancer by inviting patients and survivors to participate in their Annual Candle Lighting Ceremony honoring their courage and strength as they fight this disease. The most recent ceremony was held on Sept. 3. Along with the support of members of the community, families who have a child diagnosed with cancer light four candles. The first in honor of all families who battle with childhood cancer, followed by a candle in honor of the child in treatment, as well as one for all childhood cancer survivors. Lastly, a candle is lit in honor of the organization’s commitment to these special families. “This event provides newly diagnosed families hope for the future. They are not alone, and we want them to know that. Every patient that shared their story of survival has sparked a light of hope,” said CCF officials.