Show Me the Ozarks September 2022

Childhood cancer, in general, is something not many people think about until it affects them personally. According to the American Childhood Cancer Organization, there are approximately 400,000 children diagnosed worldwide each year, and cancer is the leading cause of death by disease past infancy for US children. The National Cancer Institute’s Funded Research Portfolio states only 4% of funding for cancer is used for childhood cancer research, and Kristin makes it her mission to bring more attention to these facts. “Cancer is awful for anyone and a life changing diagnosis, but for children, they are so young and have a lifetime to live,” she said. “They deserve more than 4%.” Camp Quality is an organization that once people know about, they are forever a part of, but not many people are aware of it in our area. “We run strictly off of donations and volunteers,” said Kristin. “It is completely free to the children and their families. Until there is a cure and children are not having to fight this horrible disease, we want to be able to come alongside and support every child diagnosed with cancer and their family.” And even though the dedicated month for childhood cancer is September, Kristin’s goal and vision is to raise awareness all year long. “Cancer doesn’t just stop in September,” she said. “These families are having to fight it all year long. There are many events on the calendar for September to help support childhood cancer awareness all around the region. Many of these events can be found on the Camp Quality Ozarks Facebook page. There are several ways to get involved. Whether it’s you personally, or your business or school – there is room for you to support childhood cancer awareness this month.

September 2022 • www.showmetheozarks.com • 87