ADVOCACY
in Virginia
Take a stand on behalf of Virginia's childhood cancer patients and survivors.
Turn Compassion into Action This September: Pledge Your Heart of Gold.
Every year, more than 350 children in Virginia are diagnosed with cancer. Behind every diagnosis is a brave child, a resilient family, and a journey no one should have to walk alone. This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation invites you to join the Heart of Gold campaign.
By taking the pledge, you commit to sharing their stories, standing alongside their families, and championing a brighter future for every child in our Commonwealth. Childhood cancer touches hearts, but a dedicated community transforms lives. Show Virginia’s kids that they have a powerful network of support behind them every step of the way—pledge your Heart of Gold today.
Childhood cancer isn't that uncommon in Virginia, and kids need our help. Here's why:
350+
children, on average, are diagnosed with cancer each year in Virginia.
Source: Virginia Department of Health
2/3
of all childhood cancer survivors develop late effects from treatment that make it harder to learn and thrive.
46%
of children who survive cancer will experience educational or other problems in school.
Source: National Library of Medicine
Join Our Advocate Community
We need your help in advocating for children with cancer and their families across the state! Whether your family has been impacted by childhood cancer firsthand, or you just have a big heart, we are always looking for more advocates to help spread awareness and lend their voice to the cause.
Sign up for advocacy emails and receive updates on childhood cancer issues and advocacy efforts in Virginia, and an invitation to participate in Virginia’s Childhood Cancer Advocacy Day.
Advocacy Day 2026
Advocacy Day is our yearly opportunity to come together as ASK kids, families, and advocates to meet with legislators and share your story. We just need YOU, our dedicated advocates, to come and share your story with legislators. Our Advocacy Day at the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond will be Thursday, February 5, 2026!
Our Success
Thanks to the tireless efforts of our advocates across the state, children with cancer were included in the 2022 state budget for the first time in Virginia’s history. Our collective work resulted in a new education support navigator program at each of the Commonwealth’s five primary pediatric cancer treatment centers.
These navigators are serving as a bridge between a child’s medical and school teams, helping them get back to school with the support that they need to be successful.
Our Advocacy Partners
Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia
Carilion Children's
Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU
Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters
Inova Schar Cancer Institute
UVA Children's Hospital