graphic with childhood cancer awareness month and drawings of a heart, medicine bottle and bandaid

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Posted by Spoonie Threads Staff on

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize the children and families affected by childhood cancers. 15,000 children a year are diagnosed with cancer in America and it remains the number one killer disease for children.  

Childhood cancer, also called pediatric cancer, is found in children and teens. The causes of childhood cancer are not completely understood. While adult cancers are often linked to lifestyle or environmental factors, cancer in children is often due to genetic changes thought to occur by chance.  

The treatments are physically exhausting and often financially devastating for families. Many parents and family members feel scared and overwhelmed following a child’s cancer diagnosis.  After treatment is complete, patients often continue to receive follow-up care which often lasts for many years. Childhood cancer survivors should take care of their health, get regular checkups and give their primary care physician details about their cancer history. 

Dr Julie Sanchez
 
At Spoonie Threads we create products to help during various medical treatments. Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Julie Sanchez co-founded the company after she saw a need with her patients. She brings her medical knowledge to the design and testing of each of our products. Here are a few items that could benefit a child undergoing cancer treatments:

 

Kid Shoulder Snap Tees 

 

A soft jersey tee with concealed snaps at both shoulders. Why use snaps? Zippers are heavy, and can feel cold and uncomfortable on skin. Our low-profile snaps have a soft fabric backing, and were carefully sourced to be MRI-friendly. Unlike zippers, our snaps can also be used to secure loose lines during treatment. Snaps provide quick access to broviacs, central lines, and chemo ports without removing clothing. 

Vertical Bodysuit 

 

This adaptive bodysuit has snap tape along both shoulder seams and down the front, providing access to feeding tubes, catheters, or ports without removing clothing. Our low-profile snaps have a soft fabric backing, and can also be used to secure loose lines during treatment.   

Soft Sleeve PICC Line Cover 

 

Soft, sweat-wicking support for PICC lines which are often used in chemotherapy. Our soft sleeves are made with sensory-friendly seams to be as comfortable as possible. They are especially helpful to use to secure lines with young children. 

Cath Clips

 

 

Cath Clips are great for securing loose or tangled PICC lines, and other cords. Coil your dangling cords between the two straps, and then snap them together. Use the plastic clip to secure cords to your clothing or bag. 

Know the signs and symptoms of cancer in children:

  • An unusual lump or swelling.
  • Unexplained paleness and loss of energy.
  • Easy bruising or bleeding.
  • Ongoing pain in one area of the body.
  • Limping.
  • Unexplained fever or illness that doesn't go away.
  • Frequent headaches, often with vomiting.
  • Sudden eye or vision changes.

Source: Cancer.org

The National Cancer Institute has resources available to help families understand treatment options and provide information to help them navigate the cancer journey.  Visit www.cancer.gov to learn more. 

 

 

 

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