El PASO (KVIA) --
Officers & volunteers gather to support kids at EP Children’s Hospital for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
. We are currently in the midst of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and El Paso Children's Hospital is gearing up for a special parade dedicated to the kiddos and their families this Thursday, September 26th. It is just one of the many events planned to bring smiles to the faces of these brave children.
Special Events to Brighten Kids' Days
Throughout September, El Paso Children's Hospital has organized various activities for these young patients. This includes a lively 'Twist and Shout' dance competition on the wards where childhood cancer patients are being cared for. One particular 6th grader, Crisel Camacho, expressed her joy after completing her final chemotherapy session, celebrating by dancing with enthusiasm in the hallways of the 7th floor of the hospital.
Celebration of Life with Volunteers and Supporters
In a recent feature of 'People, Places & Paul' on KVIA, the focus was on celebrating life. Volunteers, hospital staff, and a multitude of supporters, including law enforcement personnel, were all in attendance, guiding the kids through the dance moves and adding to the festive atmosphere.
Childhood Cancer advocate Suracy Gonzalez emphasized the importance of such events, stating, "That's why we organize these parades and events, to raise awareness about pediatric cancer and the crucial need for funding and research towards finding a cure." Delighted third grader Destinee Baltazar, who is also battling cancer, couldn't contain her excitement, rating the event as 'super, like a 10 out of 10'.
Spreading Joy to Bedside Patients
For those children who were unable to leave their rooms or beds due to illness, constables, law enforcement officials, and volunteers extended their support by visiting them to offer comfort, distribute stickers, and hand out patches. Gonzalez reiterated, "Childhood cancer is not confined to September; it is a year-round battle for families who hear the devastating words, 'Your child has cancer'. It is imperative that we continue to raise awareness and support these children in their fight against this disease."