Medical Program

Childhood cancer is the number one disease killer of children–more than asthma, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.  Each year there are over 10,000 new cases of childhood cancer diagnosed.

Childhood cancer is not a single disease but comprises numerous different types, many of which are exclusively found in children.  Over 100 different forms of childhood cancer have been diagnosed at the Children’s Cancer Caring Center over the years.  Leukemia remains the leading form of cancer in children today, while the second leading and more lethal form, on the rise in recent years, is brain tumors.

Because cancer affects children differently than it does adults, the treatment of cancer in children is also different.  This requires medical attention from pediatric oncologists and over two dozen additional separate sub-specialty physicians, some of whom are involved initially, at the point of diagnosis, with others becoming involved at various phases during the treatment process.  The cost of treating one child with cancer is staggering and continues to skyrocket annually.

The CCCC, unlike other pediatric facilities, provides long-term follow-up care into adulthood, corrective surgery and prosthetics, and whatever else is needed to improve the quality of life for the courageous children and young adults who are now long-term cancer survivors.

The greatest reward of the CCCC’s medical program comes from its remarkable, maturing patients, who have gone on to complete school, pursue professional careers, lead productive lives, get married and have children of their own.  Their accomplishments and celebrations–at graduations, weddings and other occasions–honor the true spirit of life and the very purpose of the CCCC.

Click here for more information about forms of childhood cancer and their treatment…