Legislation Supporting Psychosocial Needs of Kids with Cancer Introduced By Van Hollen and McCaul

May 11, 2011 - PRLog -- Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation commends Representatives Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Michael McCaul (R-TX), co-chairs of the Congressional Pediatric Cancer Caucus, for introducing a resolution to raise awareness, improve education, and encourage research and treatment of the psychosocial needs of children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with a childhood cancer and their families.

“This is a long-awaited day in the fight against childhood cancer,” said Peter Brown, co-founder of the Mattie Foundation, which was established in memory of his son Matthew, who passed away in 2009 from Osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.  “We are grateful for Congressmen Van Hollen and McCaul’s efforts to shine light on this critical, life-changing issue.”  

Because childhood cancer is a family disease, every single person in the family system is affected by the various stages of cancer progression, from the diagnosis to its treatment and prognosis.  There is a great need to encourage a better understanding of the psychosocial trauma experienced by the child and family members.

The resolution expresses the sincere belief that while we await more effective medications and treatments for cancer, there are tangible and realistic goals that can be implemented today to help normalize and coordinate psychosocial care for children and their families.  

Having witnessed firsthand the daunting and overwhelming reality of a child diagnosed with cancer, Victoria also thanked Representatives Van Hollen and McCaul: “I appreciate their continued leadership, commitment and support for addressing psychosocial needs. This care is essential to the overall health and wellness of the family unit, the child’s outlook about treatment, and the family’s perspective on the future.  I hope Congress will enact this resolution quickly, and I look forward to working with Mr. McCaul, Mr. Van Hollen and others on legislation to make real change for families.”

After Mattie passed away, Peter and Vicki created the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation to help build awareness and educate others about pediatric cancer as well as support the children and families who suffer from these diseases. Cancer affects about 14 of every 100,000 children in the United States each year.  

Annual Pediatric Cancer Walk:
The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation's Annual Pediatric Cancer Walk will be held on Sunday, May 22, 2011.  The purpose of the annual walk is raise awareness and support for MMCF mission, The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation is dedicated to increasing Osteosarcoma and other pediatric cancer awareness, education, advocacy, research and social support services to children, their families, and medical personnel.  This year’s walk will be held at the St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes Upper School Campus in Alexandria, Virginia, and registration opens at 12:00 PM.

About the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation:
The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation is a 501(c) (3) Public Charity founded by Peter Brown and Victoria Sardi-Brown, in loving memory of their seven year-old son Mattie, who died in 2009 from Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Mattie Miracle is dedicated to finding better treatments for and building awareness of pediatric cancer. Our Foundation is committed to addressing the psychosocial needs of children and families living with pediatric cancer as well as educating health care providers on the impact of such a diagnosis on children and their families. Mattie Miracle believes through increased awareness, education and support, and advocating for psychosocial support and needs, we can enhance the lives of children with cancer and their families.

The Foundation’s website is: www.mattiemiracle.com

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The MATTIE MIRACLE CANCER FOUNDATION (MMCF) is a 501(c)(3) Public Charity founded in the loving memory of Matthew J. Brown. Mattie Miracle is dedicated to addressing the psychosocial needs of children and families living with childhood cancer.