Belapur: The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) headquarters at CBD Belapur was illuminated in golden colour on September 12 to mark International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and spread the message that childhood cancer is curable.

The initiative was organised by Access Life Assistance Foundation, a non-profit organisation supporting children undergoing cancer treatment and their families. The golden illumination of the civic headquarters aimed to create public awareness about childhood cancer and encourage support for affected families.

September is observed globally as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the struggles of children battling the disease and remembering those who have lost their lives. While 70 to 90 per cent of childhood cancers are considered curable, survival rates in India remain around 40 to 45 per cent due to delayed diagnosis, lack of awareness and limited support systems.

Access Life founder Girish Nair said, “People are still largely unaware that the golden colour represents childhood cancer and, more importantly, that childhood cancer is curable. By lighting up a landmark close to the hearts of Navi Mumbaikars, we want to spread awareness and encourage people to learn more about the disease.”

The organisation has been conducting awareness campaigns during September for several years through initiatives such as ‘Dishoom to Cancer’ and bike rallies.

Established 12 years ago, Access Life provides free accommodation, nutritious meals, transportation, education and counselling to families of children undergoing cancer treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital and other public hospitals. The foundation currently operates centres across several Indian cities, supporting families who travel for treatment.