Golden September 2024: Let’s Pursue the WIN!
In 2024, cancer remains the leading cause of disease-related death among children over one year old in France and across Europe. Each year, thousands of children begin their battle against this illness. For “Golden September,” Imagine for Margo is intensifying its efforts to raise awareness and funds to advance pediatric cancer research. Discover our initiatives and signature event, all focused on shedding light on pediatric cancer.
*French version
A Golden Month for Pediatric Cancer Awareness
Since 2016, every September is marked in gold worldwide to raise awareness of pediatric cancer. In France, associations like Imagine for Margo, alongside doctors, researchers, policymakers, families, and volunteers, rally around the symbol of the golden ribbon, representing unity against this tragic issue.
“In September, associations mobilize daily to improve the lives of children in hospitals and beyond, and to accelerate research for better treatments,” says Patricia Blanc, Founder and President of Imagine for Margo. “We must all wear the golden ribbon, a symbol of hope for a world where children live cancer-free, and stand together with families and their children.”
In fact, every month, more than 200 children in France begin their fight. In 2024, 2,500 young warriors will be diagnosed. Despite recent progress, challenges remain: around 20% of children with cancer do not survive, and two-thirds of survivors face lifelong complications. Patricia Blanc emphasizes, “This intolerable situation must change through dedicated resources and innovation for our children.”
During this month of global pediatric cancer awareness, we aim to amplify our fight on all fronts.
A New Campaign and Book Release to Shine Bright for Childhood Cancer
Once again, Imagine for Margo, alongside Gustave Roussy who first introduced Golden September to France, is stepping up its efforts during this important time, spotlighting pediatric cancer, which still remains largely unrecognized.
This year, we’re launching a digital campaign inspired by the story of space exploration, titled “Pursuing the WIN,” in reference to Margo’s own words written in her journals. The campaign, symbolized by four young cancer warriors—Lily, Hannah, Maxime, and Romane—is brought to life through the lens of photographer Ward Ivan Rafik. This campaign, visible on Imagine for Margo’s social media and that of our partners, aims to encourage boundless generosity.
As part of the campaign, Patricia Blanc will release a book titled To the Little Girl You Were, in collaboration with Emmanuelle Schaedele, on September 2, 2024. The book recounts her family’s journey, her daughter Margo’s battle with brain cancer, and her own path to resilience through the founding of Imagine for Margo. All book proceeds go toward advancing pediatric cancer research. Available on Amazon, Fnac, and at our Enfants sans Cancer race on September 29, this moving book contributes to our fight.
Hospital and Community Events in September
Throughout Golden September, Imagine for Margo will organize a variety of events to offer respite and joy to affected children and families. The association’s patron, the Republican Guard, will visit children at Trousseau Hospital, and on September 18, families will gather at the Carnot Quarter in Vincennes for a magical afternoon with music, equestrian demonstrations, and games. On September 20, we will host a cooking workshop at Gustave Roussy, allowing children to try recipes from our nutrition guide, Eating? Not a Problem!.
Shedding Light on Brain Tumors During Golden September
Since 2011, Imagine for Margo has advocated for pediatric and adolescent cancer treatments. Brain tumors are still the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among young people. To address this, Imagine for Margo co-funds projects like BIOMEDE, the largest clinical trial for diffuse midline glioma. With these efforts, children like Lucas have achieved long-term survival from previously incurable cancers. “One child with cancer is one too many,” Patricia Blanc affirms. “We must continue to advance against this disease.”
In collaboration with European partners, Imagine for Margo joins the “Fight Kids Cancer” initiative to win against brain cancer. The 2024 project call focuses on brain tumors, a poignant cause for Imagine for Margo, 14 years after Margo’s passing from an incurable glioblastoma at the age of 14. Eight European projects, selected by an independent committee of international experts, will receive funding totaling 10.7 million euros, with four led by renowned French teams.
A Golden Race for Kids Without Cancer
To fund these ambitious projects, Imagine for Margo will host the Enfants sans Cancer race, Europe’s largest charitable run against pediatric cancer. Set for September 29, 2024, at the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud and also virtually, this event brings together thousands of participants each year.
Michel Lauzzana, Member of Parliament and committed cancer fighter, says, “By joining this race, we run for life, for hope, and for a future free of childhood cancer. Let’s mobilize and run together!”
For those who can’t attend in person, Imagine for Margo offers a virtual option, enabling everyone to participate from anywhere. This year’s race has been recognized by the Ministry of Sports as part of the Great National Cause 2024, promoting daily physical activity and raising awareness of sport’s health benefits.
On September 29, to conclude Golden September, join us for the Enfants sans Cancer race, wherever you are. More information about this day is available at enfantssanscancer.com.
Together, let’s make this September one of solidarity, generosity, and hope. Your support is vital in turning our dream into reality: building a world with children free from cancer.
GO, FIGHT, WIN!
