AN AWARD scheme recognising the courage of children and young people diagnosed with cancer has been launched in Worcestershire.
Nominations for the Cancer Research UK for Children and Young People Star Awards, in partnership with TK Maxx, are now open and families across Worcestershire are being called on to nominate young cancer patients and survivors in the run-up to Christmas.
According to Cancer Research UK, around 160 children are diagnosed with cancer in Worcestershire and the West Midlands every year.
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The Star Awards are open to all children under 18 who live in the UK and have been treated for the disease within the past five years.
There is no judging panel because Cancer Research UK for Children and Young People believes every child diagnosed with cancer deserves special recognition.
Everyone nominated receives a trophy, £50 TK Maxx gift card, a t-shirt and a certificate signed by a host of famous faces, including celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, TV personality Dr Ranj and children’s TV favourite Mister Maker - aka Phil Gallagher.
Phil Gallagher said: “The strength these young people show when faced with a cancer diagnosis is remarkable, and that’s why I’m supporting the Cancer Research UK for Children and Young People Star Awards again this year.
"Their courage and resilience needs to be honoured, and the Star Awards are such a lovely way of doing that and showing them how special they are.”
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Jane Redman, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Worcestershire, said: “As we mark our twentieth anniversary, we’re reflecting on the progress made in the fight against the disease, but there’s still much further to go.
"A cancer diagnosis is heart-breaking at any age, but it can be particularly difficult for a child or young person and their families - especially when many may experience serious long-term side effects from their treatment.
“Our Star Awards shine an important light on these inspirational individuals, so we’re urging people to get nominating now so we can celebrate their incredible courage.”
The Star Awards are run in partnership with TK Maxx.
To nominate a star, you can visit the website at visit cruk.org/starawards
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