Childhood lymphoma awareness is also included in September. Children’s Cancer Partners currently serves 25 children and families across the Carolinas with a lymphoma diagnosis. 

Lymphomas are cancers that develop in the lymph system and are divided into subcategories based on the type of cell type that is affected. As a result, they are classified as either non-Hodgkin’s (NHL) or Hodgkin’s. Typically, a diagnosis will happen in a child 10 years or older and is very unusual in children under 3 years of age. Symptoms for a lymphoma diagnosis can include: 

• swollen lymph node, especially in the neck, armpit or groin (Hodgkin’s disease usually presents with enlarged lymph nodes) 
• swelling of the face 
• abdominal pain or swelling 
• weakness, tiredness 

• sweating, especially at night 
• unexplained fever 
• unexplained weight loss 
• shortness of breath, breathing difficulties, occasional cough, high-pitched breathing sounds 
• difficulty in swallowing 

Treatment for either non-Hodgkin’s or Hodgkin’s lymphoma depend on the stage of the cancer among other factors and can range from chemotherapy to a possible transplant. Most importantly are the high cure rates both lymphomas have with NHL at 60% and Hodgkin’s with a 90-95% cure rate. 

We at Children’s Cancer Partners are privileged to interact with all these superheroes and gain inspiration from their strength. Thank you to all our supporters. Any way you contribute, whether it is through volunteering or a physical or monetary donation it truly makes a different and continues to aid in the support of these superheroes and their families.