A platform for families to share their experiences with pediatric cancer
MONTRÉAL, Sept. 1, 2026 /CNW/ -- Leucan and Marie-Mai are proud to announce the launch of L'Accolade, Leucan's new French-language podcast. The four-episode series features conversations with adolescents, young adults and parents about their experiences with pediatric cancer. All four episodes of L'Accolade are now available in French on Leucan's website and YouTube channel, as well as on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Marie-Mai, Leucan's spokesperson since 2016, hosts each hour-long episode. The launch coincides with the beginning of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, observed each September.
L'Accolade addresses the wide-ranging impacts of pediatric cancer, including psychosocial needs, financial insecurity, clinical research, self-esteem, resilience, and the loss of a child.
"As Leucan's spokesperson for the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of meeting many families, and every encounter has stayed with me in a different way," says Marie-Mai. "I wanted to deepen my commitment through a project that would allow me to listen--to understand how pediatric cancer can change a family and a life. Despite the seriousness of the issues discussed, what has struck me most is the remarkable strength and spirit of these families. Beyond the lasting effects of illness, I wanted their voices to be heard."
A resource for families affected by pediatric cancer
The title L'Accolade, French for "the embrace," reflects Leucan's commitment to supporting families without judgment at every stage of their journey.
Juli Meilleur, Leucan's executive director, is featured in one episode. As the mother of a child who has recovered from three cancers, she brings both professional and personal perspectives to the conversation.
"Pediatric cancer is often discussed through statistics or fundraising campaigns. With this podcast, we are giving a face and a voice to the realities we encounter every day at Leucan," says Meilleur. "I also take part as a Leucan parent. From the moment a diagnosis is announced, families often need to hear from others who have been through a similar journey. That is the space we have created with this podcast."
Four episodes, four inspiring stories
- Episode 1: Turning adversity into a mission, with Juli Meilleur
- Episode 2: Cancer, blindness and a new country: rebuilding as a teenager, with Anoushka
- Episode 3: Research, resilience and laughter, with Véronic
- Episode 4: Facing the unimaginable: the loss of a child, with Sabrina-Claudia
About Leucan
For more than 48 years, Leucan has supported children with cancer and their families from the time of diagnosis and throughout every stage of the illness. Through a qualified team with recognized expertise in pediatric cancer, the Association provides specialized, tailored services to hundreds of families and thousands of members across Quebec.
Leucan also funds clinical research and operates the Leucan Information Centre, helping families access reliable information and support throughout their child's cancer journey. With seven offices across the province, Leucan is there for families throughout Quebec.
SOURCE Leucan
Media contact: Alexandra Morin, Communications Manager, Leucan, [email protected], 418-944-5271
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