Children participating in a commemorative group photo during International Week for Children with Leukemia in Bursa

The International Week for Children with Leukemia (IWCL), established by LÖSEV Foundation for Children with Leukemia and dedicated to children around the world, marked its 25th year in 2026 with a large-scale international gathering held between May 11–16, 2026. Organized under the theme “Leukemia and Cancer Are Increasing Worldwide — We Must Protect Our Children”, the week aimed to raise global awareness about childhood cancers and strengthen international solidarity for children and families facing leukemia and cancer.

Inspired by the vision of Dr. Üstün Ezer, Founder and Chairman of LÖSEV, who has long emphasized the role of hope, emotional well-being, and psychosocial support in successful treatment outcomes, this year’s program once again united children and families from different cultures under a shared message of resilience and compassion.

Guided by the belief that “Where there is hope, healing follows,” LÖSEV welcomed children who had successfully completed treatment and their families from Uruguay, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Bulgaria, Croatia, Mongolia, Lebanon, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chile, and Latvia. Throughout the week, children and families came together through science, art, culture, friendship, and joyful shared experiences designed to strengthen emotional recovery and international solidarity.

Dr. Üstün Ezer’s heartfelt words, often shared during family gatherings — “If it were up to me, I would first establish a Ministry for Children and then take every child to the sea and swimming pools for a joyful holiday” — reflected the spirit of the week and LÖSEV’s commitment to children’s well-being beyond medical care.

The celebrations stretched from the historical atmosphere of Bursa to the cultural landmarks of Istanbul, meaningful gatherings in the LÖSEV Children’s Village in Ankara, and international friendship activities in Northern Cyprus, demonstrating once again that emotional support and social connection can be just as meaningful as medical treatment in a child’s healing journey.

Cultural and Creative Gatherings at the Bursa Children’s Science and Nature Village Institute

The first stop of the international program was Bursa, where children and their families arriving from around the world were warmly welcomed by LÖSEV teams and introduced to a week filled with discovery, friendship, and unforgettable experiences at the Bursa Children’s Science and Nature Village Institute.

Nature and Science Exploration: Children began their days surrounded by the fresh mountain air of Uludağ, followed by a cable car ride and visits to educational and cultural attractions, including the Zoology Museum and the Gökmen Aerospace and Aviation Training Center (GUHEM), where they explored science, technology, and space-themed experiences.
The Healing Power of Art: During creative ceramic workshops, children produced handmade artwork while also teaching one another traditional street games from their own cultures — naturally overcoming language barriers through joy and play.
International Reception: Diplomats, honorary consuls, media representatives, local officials, and international guests joined a special reception featuring traditional music, cultural performances, and meaningful exchanges that strengthened friendships across borders.
A Walk Through History: Children also explored the historic coastal town of Mudanya, visiting important landmarks including the Mudanya Armistice House Museum before continuing their journey to Istanbul.

Children gathering together during International Week for Children with Leukemia activities in Bursa

Istanbul: A Warm Welcome and the Joy of the Bosphorus

After Bursa, the celebrations continued in Istanbul, where international guests were welcomed with music, joy, and excitement by LÖSEV teams and volunteers.

Children spent time enjoying breathtaking views at Nakkaştepe Nation’s Garden, overlooking the Bosphorus, before exploring the historical atmosphere of Üsküdar and taking part in a joyful Bosphorus boat tour where friendships deepened and unforgettable memories were made.

The Istanbul program culminated in a colorful international reception held at the Lütfi Kırdar International Convention Center, followed by LÖSEV’s traditional awareness parade on Bağdat Avenue, joined by classic cars, volunteer groups, motorcycle clubs, cyclists, and hundreds of supporters advocating for childhood cancer awareness.

Speaking during the week, Arzu Celalifer, LÖSEV International Relations Coordinator, emphasized the importance of awareness and early diagnosis:

“Every year, nearly 400,000 children and young people around the world are diagnosed with cancer. At LÖSEV, we continue to raise awareness internationally because leukemia knows no borders.”

The Istanbul program concluded with LÖSEV’s traditional farewell gathering celebrating friendship, resilience, and hope.

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Performances and Celebration at the LÖSEV Children’s Village in Ankara

One of the most meaningful and joyful moments of the week unfolded in Ankara, at the LÖSEV Children’s Village, where children from different countries who had overcome leukemia came together in an atmosphere of friendship, celebration, and encouragement.

As part of the LÖSEV Pearls Project, students from participating schools and young people from LSV Educational Institutions joined the celebrations to uplift children currently undergoing treatment through meaningful activities and performances.

Science, robotics, arts, cultural activities, face painting, games, and live performances transformed the Children’s Village into a vibrant festival of joy. Children danced, laughed, and shared moments of hope while creating new friendships that crossed borders and languages.

Many visiting children described the experience as unforgettable, sharing heartfelt reflections about friendship and belonging:

“Even if we do not speak the same language, we understand each other with our hearts. LÖSEV gave us a friendship celebration we will never forget.”

Children from İzmir and Ankara Visit Northern Cyprus

As part of the “Traveling the World with LÖSEV” initiative, a group of children from Ankara and İzmir traveled to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) for one of the week’s most memorable international experiences.

Designed to strengthen cultural understanding, confidence, and social connection, the program introduced children to new places, friendships, and shared experiences while promoting awareness and solidarity.

Children explored historical and cultural landmarks including Kyrenia Castle, the Shipwreck Museum, Bellapais Monastery, St. Barnabas Monastery, the ancient city of Salamis, and the historic district of Varosha, while also enjoying local traditions and cuisine.

The visit also included meaningful institutional meetings and ceremonies that highlighted the importance of childhood cancer awareness and international solidarity. Children visited the Atatürk Monument in Nicosia and met representatives from diplomatic, municipal, and academic institutions who welcomed LÖSEV’s mission and ongoing work supporting children and families affected by leukemia and cancer.

Poster for the 2026 International Week for Children with Leukemia featuring two children embracing and highlighting the message to protect children as leukemia and cancer increase worldwide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the International Week for Children with Leukemia celebrated?

The International Week for Children with Leukemia (IWCL) is traditionally held every year during the second week of May. In 2026, LÖSEV proudly celebrated the event’s 25th anniversary with an international program held from May 11–16.

Which countries participated in the 25th International Week for Children with Leukemia?

Children and families from Uruguay, the TRNC, Bulgaria, Croatia, Mongolia, Lebanon, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Chile, and Latvia joined this year’s international gathering organized under the leadership of LÖSEV.

How were the city programs organized during the week?

The week followed an integrated program across several cities. Activities began in Bursa with science, culture, and nature experiences, continued in Istanbul with international gatherings and awareness events, and expanded to Ankara and Northern Cyprus through celebrations, institutional visits, and friendship-focused activities.

Why does LÖSEV place strong emphasis on psychosocial support and morale?

LÖSEV believes that emotional well-being, motivation, friendship, and psychosocial support play a meaningful role in helping children navigate treatment journeys. Through international gatherings, celebrations, educational activities, and cultural exchanges, children gain confidence, emotional strength, and a sense of belonging that complements medical care.

Together for Healthier Futures

Bringing together children and families from 10 countries, the 25th International Week for Children with Leukemia once again demonstrated the healing power of solidarity, friendship, and hope.

For 25 years, LÖSEV has remained committed to supporting children affected by leukemia and cancer through medical care, education, emotional support, and global awareness initiatives. Together with supporters, volunteers, and families around the world, we continue building brighter, healthier futures for children everywhere.

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