Shining a Light on the Strength of Children like Lilyan

Kitchener, ON | September 24, 2026— This September, Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN) is recognizing Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by shining a light on the strength, courage and resilience of children and families navigating cancer.

On September 1, Carl Zehr Square was lit up gold in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The golden lights served as a visible reminder of children and families whose lives have been affected by cancer and the importance of awareness, support, treatment and research.

For Lilyan, a Grade 2 student who loves arts and crafts, watching The Boss Baby and math, her experience with cancer treatment has been a journey that began when she was just six years old.

Lilyan first came to WRHN after her family noticed that her neck was swollen and that it hurt when she moved it. They came to the hospital to find out what was wrong — beginning a journey that would include lengthy treatment and many visits to the hospital.

Throughout her course of treatment, Lilyan has discovered just how strong and resilient she is. One of the things she is most proud of is the courage she has shown during the many needle pokes she has had to endure. Even on the toughest days, she has faced them with bravery and is proud that she has been able to get through them without tears.

Lilyan has been fortunate to have many people by her side, cheering her on throughout her journey. One of her biggest champions during treatment has been Music Therapist Tyler Reidy, whose unwavering support has made a meaningful difference during her medical appointments at WRHN. Through music therapy, Lilyan has found comfort and distraction during medical procedures, helping to create a more positive and reassuring patient experience throughout her treatments.

Lilyan’s experience reflects the importance of Advanced Personalized Care, one of WRHN’s strategic priorities. Personalized care means recognizing that every patient is more than their diagnosis and understanding the individual needs, interests, strengths and goals that make each person unique.

For children receiving cancer treatment, that can mean creating opportunities for them to continue being kids — whether that is through music, creative activities, connection with their families, or simply having someone there to make the difficult moments a little bit easier.

When asked what she would say to other children going through cancer treatment, Lilyan had a simple and powerful message: “You got this! Be brave and be strong.”

Lilyan also wants adults to understand that while cancer treatment is hard, children are still children and they can do big things.

Her own hopes for when treatment is complete are wonderfully kid-like. She is looking forward to celebrating her grandma’s birthday and, most of all, having the freedom to spend her time doing the things she enjoys rather than being in the hospital.

“Lilyan’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every childhood cancer diagnosis is a child who still wants to learn, play, create, laugh and simply be a kid,” said Sarah Young, WRHN Clinical Manager, Pediatrics, “Advanced Personalized Care is about understanding the whole person and ensuring care reflects what matters to each patient. For children like Lilyan, that means supporting not only their medical needs, but also their emotional well-being, their interests and their hopes for the future.” Last year, there were 590 pediatric oncology patients who visited WRHN.

Gold is the internationally recognized colour of childhood cancer awareness. Throughout September, communities come together to recognize children currently facing cancer, honour those who have lost their lives, celebrate survivors and support the families and care teams who walk alongside them.

Recognizing Childhood Cancer Month during September is an opportunity to shine a light on children like Lilyan and in her words remind others: “You got this! Be brave and be strong.”

 

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About Waterloo Regional Health Network  

Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN, pronounced wren) represents the merger of two Hospitals into a single, integrated healthcare organization. Built on over 90 years of partnership, WRHN is home to seven regional programs and comprehensive healthcare services to meet the current and emerging needs in Waterloo-Wellington and beyond. WRHN is redefining the healthcare experience through collaboration and innovation, addressing barriers to access, advancing care delivery, and setting new standards in compassionate, empowered, community-driven healthcare. At WRHN, we provide outstanding care that’s personal, seamless, and reimagined.

 

Learn more at WRHN.ca.

 

Media Contact: 
Cassandra Easton
Public Affairs Lead, Waterloo Regional Health Network
[email protected]
519-584-5548