- February 1, 2025
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Updated Sept. 10.
Port Orange Mayor Don Burnette officially proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness month at the city council meeting on Thursday, Sept. 5, which was re-scheduled due to Hurricane Dorian.
Families and friends who are part of the Warrior Kids Foundation, facilitated by Laurie Parker, participated in the proclamation to show their support of those on their journey to fight cancer. The family of Anthony Frazini, who was 12 when he lost a four month battle with cancer, was present to lend their support.
Warrior Kids Founder Sarah Stephens was absent due to some good news. She was in Michigan with her 2-year-old daughter Eleanor who had a neuroblastoma, and is now cancer free.
The Warrior Kids Foundation supports families affected by pediatric cancer by helping with finances and spiritual support. For example, if a family needs help with travel expenses, the WKF will give assistance.
Burnette said the statistics are “staggering.” He said there are 15,780 children diagnosed with cancer this year. One in every 285 children will be diagnosed with some form of cancer.
Burnette also said the color gold is very appropriate for symbolizing the plight of children with cancer.
“Gold is a treasured element, and our children are also very treasured," Burnette said. "I want gold to become as well known as pink and any of the other colors associated with the battle against cancer.”
Following the proclamation, each council member went into the crowd to shake hands with children and families fighting against cancer.
Editor's note: A previous version was incorrect, but the story is now accurate. Anthony Frazini was 12 when he lost a four-month battle with cancer.
