Highlights from the 2024 CCI Annual International Conference in Honolulu
The 2024 Childhood Cancer International (CCI) Annual International Conference was an extraordinary event held in Honolulu, Hawaii, bringing together members and partners from around the world. It was a week filled with inspiring discussions, impactful workshops, and memorable moments that celebrated our collective dedication to improving childhood cancer care globally.
Gathering at Magic Island Beach Park 🌊
The conference kicked off with a casual yet heartfelt meetup at Magic Island Beach Park. 🌺 CCI members from different regions came together to enjoy an afternoon of camaraderie and connection. It was an opportunity to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones in a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. The warmth of the Hawaiian sun mirrored the warmth shared among childhood cancer advocates united in purpose.
Inspiring Keynote Presentations 🎤
On the second day, the conference officially began with opening remarks from CCI President Rodney Wong, CCI Executive Director Carl Queiros, and Kayula Childhood Cancer Foundation’s Mumba Sata from Zambia. 🌍 Their presentations were centered on initiatives such as the “A Home Away from Home” program, which provides essential support to families of children undergoing cancer treatment. These talks set the tone for a week of forward-looking discussions and collaboration on strategies to improve access to cancer care for children globally.
Empowering Workshops 💡
Fundraising was a central theme of the event, with a dynamic workshop led by Alejandra Méndez from Chile and Daniel McKenzie from Zimbabwe. 🌱 The session equipped participants with practical tools to support their organizations' fundraising efforts, with a focus on reaching global donors and sustaining impactful projects. Attendees left with actionable strategies to continue raising awareness and resources for childhood cancer initiatives in their home countries.
Cultural Connections 🌺
A key highlight of the conference was the 30th-anniversary celebration dinner. This Hawaiian-themed evening featured traditional dishes, vibrant flower leis made by Hawaiian children with cancer, and captivating performances, including hula dancing and live ukulele music. 🌺🎶 Members and friends of CCI shared cherished memories of the organization’s early days and expressed their hopes for the next 30 years. It was a night filled with joy, reflection, and anticipation for the future.
Thought-Provoking Sessions 🧠
Throughout the conference, attendees participated in important discussions on various aspects of childhood cancer care. Experts from across the globe addressed topics like access to essential medicines, quality chemotherapy, and community awareness programs that support families and improve early detection. The “Grief is Not Just About Death” session, featuring insights from survivors and experts, offered a deep dive into the diverse experiences of grief and healing within the cancer community.
Looking Ahead 🌟
As the conference came to a close, members left feeling energized and committed to continuing their vital work in the childhood cancer field. The strategies shared, connections made, and insights gained at the 2024 CCI Annual International Conference will undoubtedly contribute to improving the lives of children with cancer around the world.
Explore the image gallery below for more highlights from this remarkable week!
