The Cabildo of Lanzarote, in collaboration with the Canary Foundation Pequeño Valiente, held the inaugural Awareness Day on Childhood Cancer this Friday in the assembly hall of the island corporation. The event brought together health professionals, affected families, and institutional representatives in a space dedicated to dialogue, training, and reflection regarding this illness that directly impacts society.
During the opening, the Councillor for Social Welfare and Inclusion, Marci Acuña, emphasized that this day was “not only about raising awareness but also about training and highlighting the role of women as primary caregivers and supporters during the illness journey.” He also stated that the intention of the Cabildo is to continue this initiative and establish it as a key reference point in the coming years.
In addition, the president of the Canary Foundation Pequeño Valiente, José Jerez, expressed his positive appreciation for the event’s reception in Lanzarote: “This has been the first meeting to discuss childhood cancer, with the participation of psychologists, technicians, and professionals who provided a comprehensive view of the disease and its diagnosis, while also highlighting the role of mothers.”
Jerez also thanked the support from the island institution, both for this event and for other social initiatives, such as the Casa Pipa in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which facilitates stays and transfers for families from Lanzarote during medical treatments, in addition to supporting the Foundation’s base on the island.
Presentations, Testimonials, and Documentary Screening
The programme featured talks from health professionals, testimonials from affected families, and a screening of the documentary *Camino vital*, which shares the experiences of young individuals from the Foundation along the Camino de Santiago. The discussions also covered medical, emotional, and social aspects related to childhood cancer, underscoring the importance of blood and bone marrow donation as vital acts of solidarity.
With this inaugural edition, Lanzarote joins other regions in promoting spaces for awareness, support, and training on childhood cancer, reinforcing the commitment of institutions and civil society in advocating for children and families facing this challenging reality.
