For children with cancer, getting to treatment can mean hours on the road, weeks in hospital and months away from home. For families walking that journey, practical support from people they have never met can make all the difference. That is what National Cupcake Day is all about.

On September 26, South Africans will once again become ‘Cupcake Angels’ by baking and sharing cupcakes to help children with cancer and their families. National Cupcake Day will be celebrated at more than 80 shopping centres across the country, with schools, workplaces and communities also joining the movement. Localised events on the KZN South Coast will be announced soon.

Since 2012, Cupcakes of Hope has provided practical, emotional and financial support to families navigating childhood cancer. Last year, the organisation supported more than 140 children every month, approved almost 2000 requests for financial assistance and delivered 3766 hospital care bags to children in all 21 paediatric oncology wards across South Africa.

“When a child is diagnosed with cancer, life changes instantly for the whole family,” said Sandy Cipriano, founder of Cupcakes of Hope.

“Parents suddenly find themselves travelling long distances for treatment, taking time away from work and facing expenses they never expected. We can’t take away a child’s diagnosis, but we can help ease some of the practical, emotional and financial pressures so families can focus on what matters most – their child.”

Cupcake Angels help make this possible.

General practitioner, childhood cancer survivor and Cupcakes of Hope patron Dr Natasché Daniels explained practical support is an essential part of treatment.

“Cancer affects the whole family,” she said.

“When some of the practical pressures are lifted, parents can focus on supporting their child through treatment. Becoming a Cupcake Angel is a simple but meaningful way for South Africans to remind families they do not have to face childhood cancer alone.”

More than 2400 Cupcake Angels helped raise over R2m to support children with cancer and their families last year. This year, Cupcakes of Hope hopes to welcome even more volunteer bakers as the need continues to grow.

To become a Cupcake Angel, register online, choose a participating shopping centre and pledge to bake 24 cupcakes. If you are not a baker, you can still make a difference by supporting your local Cupcake Angel stall and sharing #BakeADifference with your friends and family.

Visit www.cupcakesofhope.org to find out more.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram