“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve definitely become a lot prouder of my scars. They are evidence of what has happened to me and the toll that cancer has taken on me. My scars are badges of bravery because they are proof of that resiliency I’ve had through so many years; they’re proof of my strength,” Allison said.
Belleville, IL — The National Children’s Cancer Society (NCCS) is proud to announce it has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, the highest level of recognition awarded to nonprofit organizations for openness and accountability.
The Beyond the Cure Survivorship Program empowers childhood cancer survivors to pursue higher education and life beyond cancer. Since 2008, this program has awarded more than $2.7 million to 257 survivors. For the 2026-2027 academic year, 50 scholarships will be awarded to survivors who demonstrate resilience, determination, and hope for the future.
Many childhood cancer survivors experience long-term physical or cognitive late effects that could lead to challenges in the workplace. These challenges often require accommodations and resources to help survivors navigate professional boundaries and avoid discrimination. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that protects qualified individuals with disabilities, including cancer survivors, from discrimination. This law prohibits employers from using unfair hiring or firing practices and requires them to provide reasonable accommodations when needed.
Each year, approximately 15,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer, yet childhood cancer research receives less than 4% of national cancer research funding. The fight for new and improved legislative efforts focused on childhood cancer has been a long and uphill battle for many years. While the journey has been challenging, the dedication of families, survivors, and supporters continues to make an impact. In 2025, those efforts led to meaningful progress.