You can support a local woman raise awareness for all types of childhood cancer.
Stephanie Simmons is a three time brain tumour survivor from London.
Stephanie or Steph created the Gold Ribbon Campaign to symbolize every type of childhood cancer.
Steph’s mother, Renee spoke to 106.9 the X on behalf of Steph as heavy doses of radiation harmed the tissue at the back of her throat making it harder for her to speak.
Renee says at one time Steph was given 8-12 weeks to live, and was told she would never graduate public school.
Now, the 19 year old is in her first year at Fanshawe College, in the Landscape and Design program.
Steph’s diagnoses came in 2004, at the age of 9; Doctors had discovered a kiwi-sized tumour in her brain.
Renee says after a 20 hour surgery, Stephanie had to learn to do everything all over again.
She adds Steph has had 10 brain surgeries, 30 doses of radiation and 2 years of chemotherapy.
Renee says the campaign began in Steph’s own community but has since spread throughout Southern Ontario and into Central Ontario, and is branching out across Canada.
Renee says Steph called the campaign the Gold Ribbon Campaign because the Gold ribbon is the international symbol for childhood cancer in every form. Each year, 1,700 new cases of childhood cancer are diagnosed in Canada alone.
Renee says during Steph’s treatment her friend Emily had a good chance of survival and she had virtually none, Steph survived and Emily unfortunately passed away. Renee feels this was part of Steph’s inspiration for the campaign.
You can donate blood this week here at Fanshawe College, and help support as its Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
On Friday September 12th, from 11AM to 4PM a blood donor clinic will be set up at Forwell Hall.
And on Thursday October 9th at the Alumni Lounge from 11AM to 4PM.
You can also register your blood donation on behalf of the Gold ribbon Campaign, by using the Partner ID # GOLD013121
Goldribboncampaign.com
