Maryville Lions Champion Childhood Cancer Awareness and Support Efforts
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Childhood cancer remains one of the most challenging health battles faced by families worldwide. Each year, thousands of children and their families confront the emotional and physical toll of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing this urgent need, the Maryville Lions have stepped forward to support children and families affected by childhood cancer. Their efforts align with Lions International’s global focus on Childhood Cancer Awareness month, highlighting the importance of community involvement in providing care, comfort, and hope.
The Importance of Childhood Cancer Awareness
Childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death among children in many countries. Despite advances in treatment, the journey remains difficult for patients and their families. Awareness campaigns play a crucial role in:
Educating the public about early signs and symptoms
Encouraging timely diagnosis and treatment
Reducing stigma and misconceptions about cancer
Raising funds for research and family support services
By focusing on awareness, communities can foster understanding and create a network of support that extends beyond the hospital walls.
How Maryville Lions Support Children and Families
The Maryville Lions have embraced this mission through a variety of service activities designed to make a tangible difference. Their approach includes:
Making character beanies and wigs for patients
A few members of the Lions have crocheted special character beanies and wigs such as Disney characters, Animals, etc. Here are a couple samples.
Providing Emotional Support
Recognizing that cancer affects more than just physical health, the Maryville Lions offer emotional support through:
Taking toys to children in the hospital and or filling toy boxes at the hospital
Providing hygiene kits for families who don't realize they should not leave the hospital
Offering gift cards for gas or a meal to families with children in the hospital
Collecting Recyclables to provide benches
The Maryville Lions along with other clubs in District 12N East TN are collecting used plastic and turning them in to receive credits to build a bench and then donate to one of the local East TN children's hospitals. This project is being done through the NexTrex program where the bags are weighed, a photo taken and delivered to local collection sites such as Food City etc. It takes 1000 pounds to build one bench.
Lions International Grant Program
Lions Clubs International Foundation provides various grant programs to help with:
Access to educational materials and toolkits
Opportunities to participate in international campaigns
Networking with other clubs to share best practices
This partnership strengthens local initiatives and ensures a unified message reaches communities worldwide.
How You Can Get Involved
Supporting childhood cancer awareness and families in need is a community effort. Here are ways individuals and groups can contribute alongside the Maryville Lions:
Volunteer time at local events or hospitals
Donate to organizations focused on childhood cancer research and support
Advocate for policies that improve access to care and funding
Educate yourself and others about childhood cancer signs and needs
Every action, big or small, helps build a stronger support system for affected children and their families.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Support for Childhood Cancer
The fight against childhood cancer requires ongoing commitment. Sustained community involvement will be key to improving outcomes and quality of life for children with cancer.