With a focus on pediatric cancer, Burlington will host its annual in store fundraising campaign and conduct celebratory drive-by ‘parades’ for survivors
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), the world's largest nonprofit dedicated to fighting blood cancer, and the national off-price retailer, Burlington Stores, team up for the 19th consecutive year to raise critical funds for lifesaving research and cancer treatments. This year, funds raised in all Burlington store locations nationwide will not only support LLS’s mission to find cures and help blood cancer patients access the care they need, but also support The LLS Children’s Initiative. LLS’s newly established initiative is setting out to change the course of treatment and care and provides much-needed financial and emotional support to the children and their families impacted by blood cancer.
From September 28th through November 30th, Burlington is encouraging customers to donate $1 or more at checkout in its more than 739 stores nationwide. Donating as little as a dollar can provide support towards cutting-edge blood cancer research, and help save children’s lives, so they not only survive but thrive after treatment.
Photo by Nikki Khan/The Washington Post via Getty Images
Here at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), we are devastated to learn of the passing of Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg from complications of metastatic pancreatic cancer. As the global leader in the fight against blood cancer, we stand with the cancer community – and all Americans – in mourning this trailblazer whose contributions to public health and equality will be felt by generations to come.
Justice Ginsburg battled various forms of cancer over the years, including colon, lung, and pancreatic cancer. Even while enduring treatment, she was determined to continue her critical work on the Supreme Court, all while maintaining strength, compassion, and benevolence. Known for her incredible resilience, she spoke openly about her cancer experience, inspiring patients and families everywhere.
Throughout her long and storied career, she was a champion for equality. Our community of blood cancer patients, families, and volunteers is forever grateful for her role siding with the court majority in 2015. By upholding the Affordable Care Act, and through several later decisions, Justice Ginsburg protected patients from discrimination based on their health history – a devastating practice that was common prior to the enactment of that landmark law. The law also marked important progress toward addressing healthcare disparities that impact people of color and other underserved populations, helping to reduce gaps in health insurance coverage and access. Because of her tireless efforts, more cancer patients have been able to access the lifesaving care they need.
Justice Ginsburg leaves an immense legacy. As we mourn her death, we stand committed to honoring her by continuing to fight for patients’ equal access to quality, affordable healthcare. Justice Ginsburg once said, “Real change – enduring change – happens one step at a time.” Together with our patients, volunteers, advocates, caregivers, survivors, families, researchers, and healthcare professionals, we are dedicated to stepping up together to create a world without blood cancer.
In honor of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Gwen Nichols reflects on our vital work to support blood cancer patients and their families.
As Chief Medical Officer of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), I often speak with patients and survivors about adjusting to their new normal after a cancer diagnosis or treatment. But finding a new normal looks very different in a world where a global pandemic has impacted every aspect of cancer care and daily life as we know it. COVID-19 is reshaping cancer care in real-time – magnifying the issues patients face already and leaving them with more questions than answers.
Here at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), we believe no one should go through cancer alone. For more than two decades, LLS Information Specialists – master’s level oncology professionals – have been guiding blood cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to our trusted education and support. During these trying times, our Information Specialists continue to provide critical one-on-one support, and importantly, answers: from how to navigate changes in health insurance coverage to how to balance caregiving, work, and childcare at home, to how to cope with added distress and more.
What’s more, we’re hearing from patients whose clinical trial has been paused or who are concerned about traveling to their trial site. LLS Clinical Trial Nurse Navigators – registered nurses with expertise in blood cancers – are providing in-depth support, including help with finding options closer to home. We also offer one-on-one nutrition consultations with a registered dietitian to help patients and caregivers stay well-nourished.
The best part is, our help is free! There are so many ways you can find the support you need right from the comfort of your home. Our Information Specialists are ready to help you and your loved ones at 800-955-4572 or by email/chat here. And while your new normal might be anything but, I encourage you to stay on track with your appointments, embrace telemedicine and make time for self-care. Remember, taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do right now.
