Zimbabwe charity organisation nominated international award winner...............

A local charity organisation, Kidzcan, that provides support to children with cancer and their families, has been nominated for the 2014 Stars Impact Runner up award for Health in Africa-Middle East.

Kidzcan will receive the award at Kensington Palace in London next Saturday at an event to be graced by the United States of America President, Bill Clinton.

The Stars Impact Awards recognise and reward effective, well managed local organisations working to improve child health, education, protection and WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene), in countries with the highest rates of under five mortality.

“As part of the prize package, Kidzcan will receive US50 000 dollars of unrestricted funding, US10 000 dollars in tailored consultancy and a package of media support,” reads part of a Press Release prepared by Kidzcan.

The families that Kidzcan works with, cannot afford the treatment that their child needs and the charity provides a lifeline for children who otherwise have very little hope of survival.

The organisation’s activities increase the early detection of childhood cancer and improve effective treatment for children with cancer by sourcing, purchasing and donating chemotherapy and associated medications.

Kidzcan funds laboratory testing and scans, much needed blood transfusion and provides transport for families.

The organisation composed of voluntary members, play and spend time with children in treatment wards.

Parents are also provided with support meetings.

According to Kidzcan, the high rate of poverty in Zimbabwe leaves the future of children with cancer bleak.

Cancer frequently goes undiagnosed as it is often difficult to recognise from its early signs and symptoms in children.

Late treatment would be more expensive than in childhood.

Kidzcan works with the only children’s cancer unit in Zimbabwe and provides support to any child who has been diagnosed with, or is suspected of having cancer.

In 2013 Kidzcan provided direct patient support to over 400 children, 300 of whom were newly diagnosed.

This year, Stars is awarding 18 organisations from countries ranging from Brazil to Zimbabwe, for their work with disadvantaged children.

Representatives from each local charity will be in London for the Annual Gala Dinner set for December 13, 2014.