Cupcakes of Hope reaches out to children battling cancer

Cupcakes of Hope (COH) has committed itself to helping children with cancer by using the powers of baking.

As part of National Cupcake Day on September 30 and International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, COH is encouraging South Africans to ‘Bake Hope, Sprinkle Joy’ and make a difference in these alarming statistics.

Sandy Cipriano, the organisation’s founder, was inspired to start COH after seeing her friend’s two-year-old daughter’s battle with cancer. After Sandy raised money for 18-month-old Kegan who was disabled due to tumours on his spine, Sandy’s long-term vision for COH was solidified.

According to Sandy, Kegan’s life was changed by the R5 000 they raised, which seemed little at the time. He recently celebrated his 15th birthday, proof that miracles happen every day.

“COH’s primary mission is to address the financial and emotional needs of children with cancer and their families. From food, nappies, and transportation expenses to medical necessities like wheelchairs and prosthetics,” Sandy said.

“Worldwide, there is still an increasing worry about childhood cancer. Due to inadequate care, delayed diagnosis, and other issues, 80% of children with cancer in low- and middle-income nations pass away. South Africa fits in this group despite having developed oncology healthcare services.

“We believe in the transformative power of a single cupcake. We’re more than an organisation; we’re a community. Behind every cupcake lies a story of courage and resilience.

“We understand that even in the face of cancer’s darkness, a simple cupcake can radiate love and support. It’s not just about baking; it’s a call to action. We believe in the boundless potential of individuals coming together to change lives,” Sandy said.

Mall of the South, the Glen Shopping Centre and Lemon Tree Shopping Centre are among the malls that have partnered with Cupcakes of Hope to fight against cancer in Johannesburg South.

To achieve its purpose, COH is going all out this year. It is inviting South Africans of all ages to put on aprons, mix up some batter, and host their own Party of HOPE during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September.

There are two ways you can get involved:

Host a Party of HOPE

• Email us at bake@cupcakesofhope.org to register for your fundraiser

• Let your friends, family, neighbours or colleagues know you’re baking and take their orders

• Bake 24 or 48 cupcakes and collect the funds

• Donate the proceeds to Cupcakes of Hope

Join National Cupcake Day on 30 September

• Bakers can pledge their contributions at bake@cupcakesofhope.org by 23 September

• Bake 24 or 48 cupcakes

• Deliver them to any of the 60 malls participating in COH’s National Cupcake Day on 30 September.

If you can’t join in the baking festivities during International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month or on National Cupcake Day, donate HERE.

For more information, visit www.cupcakesofhope.org or contact COH directly at info@cupcakesofhope.org.