Going for the Gold event honors cancer patients and families
Wesley Children's Hospital held an event to celebrate patients and families who have dealt with pediatric cancer.
Pediatric cancer patients and their families attended the hospital’s eighth annual “Going for the Gold” Childhood Cancer Awareness Celebration on Friday, Sept. 15, at The Highlands in Valley Center. The event was open to all current and former pediatric oncology patients.
“This was an opportunity for our providers and staff to celebrate patients and families and show support of the daily battle they’re fighting,” said Jordan Lumley, a board-certified music therapist with Wesley’s Child Life Services and a member of the event’s planning committee.
Children and their families enjoyed food, drinks, dancing, photo booths and other activities. Wesley’s therapy dog, Carl, as well as several superheroes, princesses and Star Wars characters were also in attendance.
“The highlight of the event was our patients and their battles with cancer,” Lumley said. “Every day, these children display strength, courage and bravery, serving as an inspiration to all of us. We’re honored to be a part of their journey to wellness.”
The annual event also helps raise awareness about the ongoing need for funding and research for pediatric cancers, which are expected to claim the lives of more than 1,000 children under the age of 15 this year.
Learn more about pediatric oncology at Wesley Children’s Hospital.