CHOC Children’s Carnival hosted at Loftus in partnership with the Vodacom Bulls

Mar 6 • General News, National, South Africa • 1059 Views • Comments Off on CHOC Children’s Carnival hosted at Loftus in partnership with the Vodacom Bulls

Founded in 1979, CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa is the only organisation in South Africa that provides nationwide comprehensive support to children and teenagers with cancer, life-threatening blood disorders and their families. This non-profit organisation came together when a group of parents, whose children were suffering from cancer recognised the far-reaching emotional, financial and disruptive effects that cancer has on families and the children undergoing treatment. Today CHOC aim remains to alleviate as much stress and strain as possible, ensuring that both the children and their families maintain an optimistic outlook that is so crucial to a positive outcome.

Celebrating 40 years of existence this year, CHO Ccontinues expanding its support reach with a national office in Johannesburg and presence in six regions with twelve accommodation facilities. The accommodation is offered free of cost to children and their caregivers that includes transport to and from hospitals. The foundation also assists with psychosocial support for families from diagnosis as well as the journey,practical support as well as sending volunteers to interact with the children in the paediatric oncology units. CHOC support also extends to the specialist paediatric oncology treatment facilities in hospitals. Without CHOC many children from low income groups would not be able to adhere to treatment.

Globally childhood cancer is on the rise and it is estimated that one in four hundred and eight children worldwide will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 16. In developed countries childhood cancer is largely curable, with the overall survival rate reaching between 70%and 80%, or higher. Sadly in South Africa our survival rate is 55%; less than half of our children are being diagnosed, and of those diagnosed, most are in late stages. CHOC is passionate to ensure an upwards survival rate by promoting the early warning signs of childhood cancer which will lead to early detection and referral of children in the earlier stages to the specialized paediatric oncology units.

The Vodacom Bulls’support of the CHOC Northern Region’s initiatives over the years assists CHOC in raising awareness for childhood cancer amongst our local communities and CHOC is very proud of the accomplishments achieved through this fruitful partnership such as the support of the Vodacom Super Rugby Season 2019#tackling cancer campaign. Through various joined initiatives such as the annual CHOC Children’s Carnival the #BullsFamily has also financially contributed to ensure that CHOC’s core programmes are available to the children and their families which ensures adherence of treatment. This long-standing partnership is a symbol of the difference fruitful community relationships can make – together we are keeping more than hope alive for families from all parts of South Africa.