Evesham council recognized Childhood Cancer Awareness Month at its Aug.11 meeting, and although the proclamation it issued is for September, Mayor Jaclyn Veasy wanted to shine light on the effort.
“We did this two years ago as a joint proclamation with the police department and fire department,” Veasy explained. “We do have some families here in Evesham who struggle with their children who have cancer. We’d like to recognize and support them in the month of September.”
Childhood cancer, also known as pediatric cancer, is estimated to be the leading cause of death by disease among children in the U.S. Estimates for 2021 are that 15,590 children and adolescents under the age of 19 will be diagnosed.
Childhood cancers are not typically linked to lifestyle or environmental risk factors. Due to major treatment advances in recent decades, 84 percent of children diagnosed with the disease now survive five years or more, compared with 50 years ago, when the five year survival rate was only 15 percent.
“We must continue our unwavering support for the research that will lead to even more effective treatments,” Veasy said.
She went on to introduce council’s proclamation for Month Relay For Life, an American Cancer Society foundation that is the American Cancer Society’s top fundraiser. This year, the foundation will hold an in person event on Sept. 18 to celebrate survivors of all cancers and remember those lost.
The event will take place at Memorial Sports Complex from 3 to 9 p.m.
Council also had its second reading of a measure on adopting certain regulations for the conduct of legal cannabis businesses, as well as the zoning map for sales.
Council then had a second reading on the adoption of Peace and Good Order, a measure that would prohibit smoking or inhalation of marijuana, cannabis or cannabis items in public places.
“I think we’re making the right decision here, based on the research where it stands,” said Councilman Eddie Freeman III. “I think we’re making the right decision if we vote to approve this ordinance by allowing cannabis businesses in our town.”
Veasy thanked the public for questions and concerns, but said she believes the township has done its due diligence with other officials on cannabis and can begin drafting this legislation.
“We’re doing what’s right for the residents, especially since there was an overwhelmingly voted to legalize cannabis,” said Councilwoman Patricia Hansen
The next Evesham Council meeting will be held on Sept. 8 at 7 p.m., in the Evesham council courtroom on 984 Tuckerton Road in Marlton.
