Laughter echoed through Hope Gardens on Saturday, September 27, as young cancer patients from the Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC) were treated to a day of carefree fun, thanks to the Flow Foundation. Despite the overcast skies, the children’s radiant smiles lit up the grounds as they enjoyed games, rides, and sweet treats—creating cherished memories that offered a joyful escape from their daily battles with illness.

The event formed part of the Foundation’s annual observance of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and was complemented by a $1 million donation to the Paediatric Cancer Fund, administered in partnership with BHC. The Fund provides critical financial support for life-saving medications and diagnostic tests, easing the burden on families facing the emotional and financial strain of cancer treatment.

Dr Sharon McLean-Salmon, Consultant Paediatrician, Haematologist-Oncologist at BHC, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the donation. “I cannot even begin to emphasise how important this Fund is to the care of our young patients. Oftentimes, their families simply do not have the resources needed for medications or tests,” she said. “Knowing that this Fund exists goes a long way to relieving some of the financial burden on the families and, as medical practitioners, facilitates us greatly in being able to make a difference.”

One young patient, Malia Davy, summed up the day’s impact with a beaming smile: “I loved everything! I had so much fun, and I hope they will do it again next year!”

Rhys Campbell, Executive Director of the Flow Foundation, reflected on the emotional significance of the initiative. “I don’t know who was more excited—the kids or the Flow Foundation team. It warms our hearts to be able to take their minds off their illness and just allow them to be carefree children, even for a moment. Showing up for families in their greatest time of need is the right thing to do. This is why this initiative is so important, and this is why we do it each year.”

The Flow Foundation Paediatric Cancer Fund continues to be a beacon of hope for families facing the unimaginable. Through this initiative, the Flow Foundation reaffirms its commitment to national development by positively impacting lives, one child, one family at a time.