Text by Bianca Cortese
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it turns the family's world upside down. Suddenly, fear and helplessness take over, but alongside them is a little person fighting bravely.
When the CCF Children Cancer Foundation was established in 1997, its focus was on providing targeted support to children and young people with cancer from financially disadvantaged families.
For founding member Friedhelm Gruber, it was the personal tragedy of losing his godchild to leukaemia that became the driving force behind his ongoing commitment. As a member of the CCF's board of trustees, he has been passionately committed to helping affected children and their families for almost 30 years.
Fighting powerlessness with humanity
Around 180 out of every million children in Central Europe are diagnosed with cancer every year. Thanks to modern medicine, four out of five of these children now survive. However, survival does not automatically mean good health. Many struggle with physical, emotional, or social side effects for years after treatment. It is not only the children who suffer; everything changes for their parents, too. The diagnosis usually comes as a complete shock. Life comes to a standstill. Work, everyday life and financial security are all thrown off balance.
‘I have been involved with the CCF since the beginning of the year,’ says Fabienne Lemaire, the foundation's communications manager. Over the past few months, she has met many affected children and their parents in person. 'Their stories really get under your skin because it's not just the children who suffer; entire families suffer too: siblings, grandparents, everyone.'
Many people believe that health insurance covers everything. ‘But that's only true to a limited extent,’ says Lemaire. ‘When a child needs treatment over many months, many parents reduce their working hours or give up work entirely to be able to care for their child. This puts an emotional strain on them and often puts them in financial distress.’ This is exactly where the CCF comes in. 'Our help goes where it is needed – quickly and without red tape,' she emphasises. 'Through close cooperation with the social services of children's hospitals, we know which families are particularly hard up – and we provide targeted support to those who really need it.'
A foundation with a history – and a future
It was established in Liechtenstein in 1997 under the name European Foundation for the Support of Needy Children and Young People with Cancer. Since then, a lot has happened: new locations have been established, partnerships with clinics and rehabilitation centres have been formed, and charity events have been held in several countries. In 2023, the foundation was renamed the Children Cancer Foundation (CCF). Its mission remains the same: to support children and families during the most difficult times in their lives. ‘We are committed to the change we want to see,’ says Lemaire. 'For us, that means providing support where it is most urgently needed. Families who are already struggling to make ends meet should not be forced into financial hardship by the serious illness of a child.’
Since 2025, the CCF has also been an associate member of the Association of Liechtenstein Charitable Foundations and Trusts. This membership strengthens the CCF's connections with other charitable organisations and highlights its commitment to providing sustainable, professional, and humane support to children with cancer and their families.
Strong Together: Solidarity that Connects
One of the CCF's most successful initiatives is the 'Golfing with Heart' project. Since 2004, golf tournaments have been held in several countries to support families affected by various issues. People combine their passion for sport with a commitment to social causes. Another particularly atmospheric event is the White Charity Party. On 23 August, Esswerk Eschen will be transformed into a vibrant venue offering live music, DJ sets, street food and a warm atmosphere. ‘With every ticket sold, we provide practical support for families,’ explains the communications manager. Between culinary delights and a good atmosphere, there will also be insights into the fates of affected families. The partner project 'KiKli Fit' will also be presented. This project uses exercise therapy to help children and young people with cancer achieve better health, a higher quality of life and easier social reintegration. Physical activity has been proven to promote the well-being and quality of life of young patients, which is an important component of their holistic treatment. ‘We are looking forward to seeing lots of people join us in sending a message in white for hope.’ Fabienne Lemaire concludes by emphasising: 'Together, we can achieve a lot because, in addition to providing financial support, we give those affected hope and the reassurance that they are not alone.'
