Celebrating 30 Years of Advocacy: Childhood Cancer International’s Legacy of Hope and Support

Childhood Cancer International (CCI) has marked three decades of dedicated service to improving the lives of children with cancer and their families.

In 2024, Childhood Cancer International (CCI) marks its 30th anniversary as the world’s largest network dedicated to childhood cancer advocacy.

Over the past three decades, CCI has driven global change by championing early diagnosis, equitable access to quality care, and survivorship support. From establishing International Childhood Cancer Day to partnering with the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, CCI has tirelessly worked to close the gap in childhood cancer outcomes, especially in low-resource settings.

This milestone anniversary celebrates not only the organization’s achievements but also the resilience and courage of the children, families, and communities it has served. As CCI reflects on 30 years of progress, it renews its commitment to ensuring that no child with cancer is left behind, no matter where they live.

Childhood Cancer International (CCI) celebrated its 30th Anniversary at its Annual International Conference from October 17th to 20th, 2024, in Honolulu, Hawaii.

History

Childhood Cancer International (CCI) was established in 1994 by a group of parent and survivor organizations from around the world who recognized the need for a unified global voice for children with cancer and their families.

Initially named the International Confederation of Childhood Cancer Parent Organizations (ICCCPO), the network focused on improving support for families and advocating for better treatment and care globally.

CCI was founded with the mission to improve childhood cancer care and support worldwide, forming a coalition of parent groups to share resources, experiences, and strategies.

Early partnerships were established with organizations like the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) and regional networks to enhance its global reach and impact. CCI actively participated in major international health forums and became a leading voice for childhood cancer advocacy, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

The organization later rebranded as Childhood Cancer International to reflect its broader mission and growing network, which had expanded to include survivors, health professionals, and advocates. In 2018, CCI became a key partner in the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, aiming to reduce inequities in care and improve survival rates.

CCI Launched the first International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) on February 15, 2002, which is now observed worldwide to raise awareness about childhood cancer.

During the 2010s, CCI expanded its focus to survivorship, addressing late effects of treatment, and empowering survivors to advocate for themselves and future generations.

In the 2020s, the organization deepened its advocacy for universal healthcare access for children with cancer, especially in underserved regions.

Today, CCI represents more than 180 member organizations in over 100 countries and remains the largest global network advocating for the needs of children with cancer, their families, and survivors. Through its partnerships and campaigns, CCI works tirelessly to reduce the global burden of childhood cancer.

“We believe that every child with cancer deserves access to best possible treatment and medical care.”

President of Childhood Cancer International (CCI) is a Rodney Wong. As a parent of a cancer survivor, he brings personal experience and passion to his role on the board. In addition to his position at CCI, Rodney is the President of the Sarawak Cancer Children Society (SCCS) and co-founded Childhood Cancer Malaysia (CCM, where he currently serves as Honorary Advisor.

Rodney Wong, President of CCI

The survivors of childhood cancer represent a vital group within Childhood Cancer International (CCI). They not only serve as beacons of hope for newly diagnosed patients but also possess unique needs that require attention. While there are existing local and regional groups for survivors, many countries and regions lack structured support systems for these individuals.

“We are already working with a group of survivors from all over the word, and our medium-term objective is to have a local structure of survivors at least inevery country where CCI has a member organisation.” 

Childhood Cancer International (CCI) offers a variety of resources, including guidebooks, handbooks, storybooks, reports, and videos, aimed at supporting children with cancer and their families. These materials are designed to provide essential information, guidance, and emotional support throughout the cancer journey.

Through its ongoing efforts, CCI continues to raise awareness about childhood cancer issues, advocate for patient rights, and foster research initiatives, all while striving to create a world where every child with cancer has access to the best possible care and support.

“Together, we will transform childhood cancer care, everywhere. Together, united, we are stronger.”