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International Childhood Cancer Day

Let's unite on International Childhood Cancer Day to raise awareness and support for children fighting this disease. Together, we can make a difference!

Monday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 15

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYCancer

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Every year on February 15, we come together to raise awareness and support for children battling cancer on International Childhood Cancer Day. This day was first declared in 2002 by the International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) Coalition, with the goal of highlighting the need for more resources, treatment options, and research towards childhood cancer. It's a day to honor the strength and resilience of these young warriors and their families, while also spreading hope and inspiring others to join the fight against this disease. So let's unite and make a difference in the lives of these brave children!

TIMELINE

International Childhood Cancer Day Timeline

First Pediatric Oncology Units

The first pediatric oncology units started to be established in developed countries, kick-starting an era of specialized care for children with cancer.

Progress in Childhood Cancer Treatment

There was significant progress in childhood cancer treatment, increasing the survival rate for many common types of pediatric cancers.

Establishment of ICCD

International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) was first declared by the International Society of Pediatric Oncology and Childhood Cancer International, emphasizing the need for concerted global actions to address this issue.

Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer

World Health Organization launched the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer with the goal of increasing survival rates globally to 60% by 2030.

Advocacy for Global Policy Changes

ICCD and other organizations gain traction in their advocacy for policy changes to bring childhood cancer to the forefront of global health agendas.

COVID-19 Impacts Childhood Cancer Care

The global pandemic presented unprecedented challenges in delivering care and treatment for childhood cancer, highlighting the need for resilient health systems.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Childhood Cancer Day

Host a fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research. This could be a charity dinner, a walk/run event, or a silent auction.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a children's hospital

Spend the day volunteering at a local children's hospital that specializes in treating childhood cancer. Bring books, toys, and games to help bring some joy to the patients.

CREATE

Create care packages for pediatric cancer patients

Gather items like coloring books, crayons, puzzles, and other small gifts to create care packages for children undergoing cancer treatment. These can be delivered to hospitals or sent to families with children battling cancer.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information about childhood cancer and the importance of early detection and treatment. Use hashtags like #InternationalChildhoodCancerDay and #GoGold to join the conversation.

HOST

Host a movie night fundraiser

Invite friends and family over for a movie night and charge a small admission fee. Donate the proceeds to a childhood cancer organization or hospital. You can also sell snacks and drinks to raise additional funds.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Childhood Cancer Day is Important

It shows solidarity with those affected by childhood cancer

By participating in events or activities on International Childhood Cancer Day, we show our support and solidarity with children who are battling cancer, as well as their families. It sends a powerful message of love and hope to those who may feel alone in their fight against this terrible disease.

It raises awareness for childhood cancer

International Childhood Cancer Day shines a spotlight on a disease that affects thousands of children and their families every year. By spreading awareness, we can educate people about the realities of pediatric cancer and work towards finding better treatments.

It supports research and funding

With increased attention comes increased support for research and funding. International Childhood Cancer Day provides an important platform for organizations and individuals to advocate for more resources to be put towards finding cures and helping those affected by childhood cancer.