Discussing Bonds and Empathy within the Childhood Most cancers Group

Joe McDonough has devoted almost twenty years to supporting youngsters with most cancers and their households by means of The Andrew McDonough B+ (Be Constructive) Basis, which he co-founded after dropping his son Andrew. Through the years, the muse has turn into one of many largest sources of economic help for households navigating childhood most cancers within the U.S.

In December 2025, McDonough was honored on the Blood Most cancers Heroes occasion, a celebration recognizing people who make a significant distinction for individuals residing with leukemia, lymphoma, a number of myeloma and myeloproliferative neoplasms. The occasion, hosted by CURE in partnership with Blood Most cancers United, highlights those that strengthen assist networks and amplify affected person voices.

On this dialog, McDonough opens up concerning the connections he has witnessed inside the childhood most cancers neighborhood and the teachings these bonds have taught him about empathy and shared expertise.

Transcript

Within the midst of all the pieces your loved ones has confronted, what has stood out to you most concerning the individuals you’ve gotten met alongside the way in which?

We dwell in a really divided world, however most cancers is a good equalizer. It would not matter should you’re Jewish, Christian, Muslim, wealthy, poor, Republican, Democrat, city or rural; it is like this merciless wheel spins and lands on you.

I’ve some great associates that I’ve met due to childhood most cancers. I want I did not know them below these circumstances, however it brings us collectively. When I’m within the kitchen on the unit with my son again in his room and I come throughout you, we have now this bond. You are preventing to your little woman; I am preventing for my little boy. This will sound odd, however it’s a gorgeous factor.

I am pulling for you, and you might be pulling for me. I do not even know you, besides I do know you are a dad and I am a dad, otherwise you’re a mother or a grandma. Childhood most cancers would not care how a lot cash you make, would not care what political celebration you might be, and would not care should you’re documented or undocumented. It occurs, and we as a world, not simply the US, need to assist the youngsters and the households of children with most cancers.

Transcript has been edited for readability and conciseness.

For extra information on most cancers updates, analysis and training, don’t neglect to subscribe to CURE®’s newsletters right here.