The intersection of childhood illness and community support was powerfully demonstrated recently by a gymnastics club in Tröstau, Germany, and the pediatric oncology department at Erlangen University Hospital. What began as a gesture of solidarity with a young member battling cancer evolved into a €6,000 fundraising campaign to enhance the well-being of children undergoing cancer treatment.
The initiative was sparked when four-year-old Friedrich, a member of ATG Tröstau e. V., received a cancer diagnosis. Coaches Theresa Rogler and Miriam Wunderlich immediately sought a way to support Friedrich and his family, ensuring he remained connected to the gymnastics community despite his illness. This led to a decision to donate half the proceeds from the club’s Christmas gymnastics event to the pediatric oncology department at Erlangen University Hospital, where Friedrich is receiving care.
The outpouring of support exceeded expectations. A GoFundMe campaign, launched alongside the Christmas event donation, ultimately raised a total of €6,000. “We were overwhelmed by the response and willingness to help – a big thank you to all the donors,” emphasized Theresa Rogler.
The Benefits of Exercise and Nutrition in Pediatric Oncology
The funds will be specifically allocated to support programs focused on “exercise and nutrition” for young cancer patients. This reflects a growing understanding within the medical community of the positive impact physical activity can have on children undergoing cancer treatment.
For decades, conventional wisdom dictated rest as the primary approach for individuals battling serious illness. However, recent scientific studies have demonstrated that exercise can actively mitigate many of the debilitating side effects associated with chemotherapy, including fatigue and nausea. The Erlangen pediatric oncology department already operates a dedicated sports room where patients can engage in physical activity, both independently and with the guidance of a sports therapist.
Crucially, the operation of this sports room relies entirely on donations, as health insurance coverage for such programs remains limited. This highlights a gap in healthcare funding that often leaves vital supportive therapies under-resourced.
Beyond Treatment: Creating a “Temporary Home”
Professor Dr. Markus Metzler, head of pediatric oncology at Erlangen University Hospital, underscored the holistic benefits of such support. “Pediatric medicine is not just about high-tech, but above all about a lot of time and attention,” he stated. “Donations like this make it possible for the ward to not just be a place for treatment for the children, but also to become a temporary home.”
The impact of the donation extends beyond the provision of exercise facilities. It contributes to creating a more nurturing and supportive environment for children facing the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment. Little Friedrich himself enthusiastically tested the equipment in the sports room – a treadmill, tennis setup, and obstacle course – and expressed his eagerness to return to gymnastics after completing his treatment.
The story of ATG Tröstau e. V. And the Erlangen pediatric oncology department serves as a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can complement and enhance medical care, offering hope and improved quality of life for young patients and their families. The focus on exercise and nutrition represents a forward-thinking approach to pediatric oncology, recognizing the importance of addressing the whole person, not just the disease.
The GFWC Miami Springs Woman’s Club also demonstrated a commitment to supporting children with cancer, raising over $11,000 in 2024 through their “Jail & Bail for Charity” event. A $6,000 portion of these funds was donated to ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation and SebastianStrong Foundation, organizations dedicated to fighting childhood cancer. This event highlights the positive impact of community members rallying together to support pediatric cancer research and treatment.
Similarly, organizations like FC Bayern Munich are actively involved in supporting children with cancer. Joshua Kimmich and Serge Gnabry visited the Haunersche Children’s Hospital in Munich, donating €25,000 through their respective foundations and the club. These initiatives demonstrate a growing awareness of the need for increased funding and support for pediatric oncology.
Other groups, such as Our Daughters Gymnastics Academy and a group of dedicated fathers, are also fundraising to support Young Lives vs Cancer and to improve facilities for their gymnasts. These efforts, while geographically diverse – ranging from Germany to the United States and Ireland – share a common thread: a dedication to improving the lives of children battling cancer and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to thrive.
In Carrigtwohill, Ireland, Cork Acro Gymnastics Club is facing closure unless it can raise €6,000. While not directly related to cancer support, this situation underscores the financial challenges faced by many community-based organizations that provide vital services to children and families.
