Childhood Cancer – Lions District 24-L

Battling Childhood Cancer

Why & How:

Childhood cancer remains one of the leading causes of illness-related death among children worldwide. Thousands of children are diagnosed each year with leukemia, brain tumors, lymphoma, and other rare pediatric cancers.

Unlike many adult cancers, pediatric cancers are not largely preventable, and families often face emotional and financial hardship during extended treatments. As Lions, we have the opportunity to bring hope, compassion, and meaningful support to children battling cancer.

Lions Clubs International initiated the global cause of battling childhood cancer to address the growing impact of cancer on children and their families worldwide.

Clubs are encouraged to support Childhood Cancer initiatives through:

Community education and advocacy -- Educate communities about the early signs and symptoms of childhood cancer to improve early detection.
Fundraising for pediatric cancer programs.
Local support for children and families -- Provide emotional, financial, and logistical support to families navigating a cancer diagnosis.
Partnerships with hospitals and nonprofit organizations.
Improving Treatment Access -- Partner with hospitals and organizations to fund treatments, research, and healthcare.
Enhance Quality of Life -- Offer support programs such as camps, therapy, and recreational activities for children undergoing treatment.

Fundraiser & Service Project Ideas:

Fundraisers:

Lemonade Stand Challenge
Charity Walk/Run for Childhood Cancer
Benefit Dinner or Dance
Silent Auction or Online Giving Campaign

Service Projects:

Care packages for pediatric oncology units.
Toy and blanket drives.
Meal support for families during hospital stays.
Holiday events for children in treatment.

District Contact:

Alicia Calayag
Chairperson, Childhood Cancer – District 24-L Lions of Virginia
Secretary, Alexandria Asian American (AAA) Lions Club

Organizations:

Fairy Godmother Project
- Spotsylvania Club supports Brick Project -- the goal is to sell 150 bricks which will result in $4K for Fairy Godmother Project.
- Wine and Fairy Hair Event -- February 15^th at Backporch Vineyard
House of Hope
Ronald McDonald House Charities
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Tools:

Childhood Cancer Presentation
Childhood Cancer Resources -- a comprehensive list created by Fairy Godmother Project

Updates:

January, 2026 -- From Kathy Heil, Spotsylvania Lions Club

There are many ways Lions can provide support to families with a child with cancer. The Spotsylvania Lions made a six-month commitment to provide monthly Community Care Packages. Our goal for the Brick Project raise $4K selling 150 bricks. In addition, we supplied more than 100 items of emotional- support crochet creatures to families. We hosted two Pampered Chef parties with portions of the sales going to FGP, and are hosting a Wine and Fairy Hair event on February 15.