RALEIGH, N.C. — Sept. 1 starts Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Researchers from St. Jude Research Children’s Hospital say childhood cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease for children under the age of 14.

What You Need To Know

  • September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
  • Jacy Phaneuf, director of Riley’s Army in the Triangle, works to support 445 children with cancer in Eastern North Carolina
  • Riley’s Army is hosting a 5K virtual run Sept. 27-29 to raise money for families with children battling cancer

Jacy Phaneuf, director of the nonprofit Riley’s Army Triangle chapter, works to support 445 children with cancer who live in Eastern North Carolina. She also helps cancer patients in other parts of the state, including Raleigh.

Riley’s Army helps families by providing emotional, financial and spiritual support.

The organization is hosting a 5K virtual run Sept. 27-29 to raise money for families impacted by childhood cancer.

People across the state are asked to run or walk 5 kilometers and post their pictures on social media. It costs $40 to register.

One in 285 children in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer before they reach the age of 20, according to the American Childhood Cancer Organization.

Riley's Army was inspired by 10-year-old Riley Philpot, who died in 2011 from cancer. Riley was diagnosed with Wilm’s tumor in 2006. She relapsed four times.

To learn more about Riley’s Army and how to register for the 5K, click here.