The exploration of life's journey often begins in youth, a stage brimming with ambition and self-discovery. Yet, for children diagnosed with cancer, this formative period may never fully unfold. Those who survive face a host of challenges after completing treatment: the lingering fear of relapse and the long-term side effects of intensive therapies. Their families, too, bear a heavy emotional burden-one that is often difficult for outsiders to truly grasp.
As a steadfast companion on this journey, the Pau Kwong Wun Charitable Foundation has, over the years, devoted itself to supporting children with cancer and their families. Drawing on the experience and dedication of individuals who have walked this path, the foundation has developed a comprehensive range of voluntary services focused on childhood cancer. Initially, its efforts were directed towards caring for children with advanced-stage cancer. Over time, however, its mission expanded to include helping survivors reintegrate into society.
Founded in 1998, the foundation began its work in Hong Kong before extending its reach to mainland China. In partnership with the Guangzhou Gold-Ribbon Special Children Parents Centre, a long-standing collaborator, the foundation has worked with paediatric oncology hospitals across various provinces. It provides training to parent support organisations serving children with cancer in China, with the aim of improving treatment standards and offering practical support to young patients and their families. By empowering these organisations, the foundation hopes to create a ripple effect-enabling them to assist others and, in turn, benefit more families.
In 2004, the foundation became a member of Childhood Cancer International (CCI), headquartered in the Netherlands. From 2005 to 2015, its chairperson served on the CCI board, and since 2016, he has held the position of Regional Chair of CCI Asia. In this role, he has supported countries in need-particularly low-income nations such as Myanmar and Indonesia-through initiatives including nutrition training and medical research. The foundation also helps organise annual regional conferences, offering a platform for CCI Asia members to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and ultimately enhance cure rates and awareness of paediatric cancer services across the region.
Supporting children with cancer is a long and demanding journey. The true needs of survivors and their families are not always well understood. This path requires the collective effort of many. The Pau Kwong Wun Charitable Foundation is profoundly grateful for the unwavering support it has received from medical professionals, parents, survivors, volunteers, and generous donors over the years. It recognises that such support is neither easily earned nor guaranteed. In return, the foundation pledges to continue its mission in Hong Kong, mainland China, and beyond-offering more services and appropriate support to children with cancer, survivors, and their families.
Message from the Founder and Chairperson
Benson Pau