Proclamation
Whereas, the State of New York recognizes its fundamental moral obligation to support every child facing cancer, to ease the profound stress of this jarring medical diagnosis, and to ensure the state remains a sanctuary of top-tier pediatric cancer care, treatment, and research; and
Whereas, cancer is not a single disease, but a complex group of related diseases in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, damage nearby tissue, and spread to other parts of the body; and
Whereas, childhood cancers are fundamentally different from adult cancers because they develop in specific cell types rather than organs, resulting in distinct risk factors, behaviors, and treatment needs; and
Whereas, youth of all ages, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds are affected by cancer, and each year in New York State, approximately 950 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer and nearly 100 young New Yorkers lose their lives to this disease; and
Whereas, the most common types of cancer in young people are leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and cancers of the brain and nervous system; and
Whereas, in the United States, an estimated 15,500 children are diagnosed with cancer annually, and one in six children in America do not survive beyond five years; and
Whereas, young people with cancer experience a wide range of emotions—frequently including fear, anxiety, and sadness—and beneficial coping strategies include creative pursuits, relaxation techniques, and the support of mental health professionals; and
Whereas, while parents and caretakers may feel pressure to maintain a brave face and say the right things at all times, children learn how to navigate their feelings based on a caregiver’s reactions; thus, maintaining an open, honest, and calm demeanor creates a safe space where children can feel comfortable being vulnerable and confiding in their loved ones; and
Whereas, we extend our deepest gratitude to the researchers, healthcare professionals, and organizations dedicating their efforts to treat, cure, and uplift children with cancer and their families; acknowledge the devastating impact this disease continues to have on too many young lives; and remain steadfast in our commitment to ease their suffering and support the mission find a cure;
Now, Therefore, I, Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim September 2026, as
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
in the Empire State.
Given under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State
at the Capitol in the City of Albany this first day
of September in the year two thousand twenty-six.
Kathy Hochul, Governor
Secretary to the Governor
Karen Persichilli Keogh