Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Tree Lighting Coming To Huntington

HUNTINGTON, NY — The Daniela Conte Foundation's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at Huntington Town Hall, at 100 Main St., Huntington.

The foundation was created in loving memory of Daniela Conte, who died of a rare form of childhood cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma on March 2, 2020, at the age of 8. The Conte family strives to raise awareness of childhood cancer and efforts to combat it at the annual tree lighting ceremony, which it hopes to make a community affair.

"Our goal is to create a special and meaningful evening for everyone involved," Katia Conte, president of the foundation and Daniela's mom, told Patch. "We warmly welcome all cancer foundations, along with any families affected by pediatric cancer, to join us in raising awareness, honoring the strength of these brave young fighters, and remembering our angels."

Daniela fought her cancer battle for four years, remaining a "wellspring of never-ending hope and love" throughout, her mother said.

"The drawers in our home are still filled with the little cards and drawings she crafted for us," Katia stated in a previous Q&A. "While she fought for her life, she told us she wanted to help other children and families facing challenges like ours."

Katia and her husband, Anthony, created the Daniela Conte Foundation in their daughter's memory.

"This decision was rooted in our commitment to carrying out her heartfelt wish," Katia said. "It's in Daniela's honor that we are resolute in becoming the voices of change in the battle against pediatric cancer. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow up."

The foundation's goal is to provide direct financial support, raise awareness, and fund vital research to aid pediatric cancer warriors and their families.

Click here to read the full Q&A with Katia Conte of The Daniela Conte Foundation.