Contact: Marcie Klein
Tel: (914) 821-8205
marcie.klein@lls.org

White Plains, N.Y. (May 29, 2014) -- While extraordinary progress has been made in treating childhood leukemia and other pediatric cancers in recent years, critical attention must also be paid to the educational and emotional challenges facing kids re-entering school after treatment. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and Sylvan Learning are partnering to raise funds and awareness to help children across the U.S. with leukemia, the most common cancer in children and adolescents less than 20 years old, many of whom struggle with schoolwork as they re-enter school after a long absence.

As a "Special Friend," Sylvan is committed to raising $250,000 this year to benefit LLS's quest to find cures for blood cancers and ensure access to treatments for the patients who need them.

"LLS and Sylvan are focused on the unique needs of families with school-age children dealing with blood cancers," explains Louis J. DeGennaro, Ph.D., interim president & CEO and chief mission officer, LLS. "Through its personalized, national tutoring services, and its community presence in our Light The Night Walks, Sylvan plays an important role in helping us fulfill our role as the voice for blood cancer patients, including children."

Sylvan Learning is also donating more than 12,000 hours of free tutoring services to pediatric patients who have fallen behind in school due to treatment. Children in treatment or who have undergone treatment in more than 250 communities nationwide will receive a full tutoring scholarship, including a detailed academic assessment, a tutoring plan personalized to his or her exact needs, as well as 24/7 access to additional educational resources online. 

"Children with cancer face many educational obstacles as they go through treatment and when they transition back into a normal school routine," said Jeffrey Cohen, CEO, Sylvan Learning. "Through our tutoring scholarship program, along with our community efforts nationwide with Light The Night, we hope to play an active role in improving the lives of children and families across the country."

Light The Night Walks

Sylvan Learning has committed to raise more than $250,000 for LLS through fundraising initiatives and participation in Light The Night walks held across the country. The LTN fundraising campaign is a key driver of funds to LLS, which benefit the development and delivery of breakthrough treatments and cures for blood cancers. During nearly 200 inspirational evening walks nationwide, supporters form fundraising teams carrying illuminated balloons to bring light to the dark world of cancer. 

To find a local walk and join Sylvan Learning in supporting this great cause, visit Sylvan Learning's Light The Night fundraising page here.

About Sylvan Learning, Inc.

With more than 30 years of experience and more than 800 locations throughout North America, Sylvan Learning is the leading provider of personal learning for students in grades K-12. As the leader in supplemental education, Sylvan is transforming how students learn, inspiring them to succeed in school and in life. Sylvan's proven tutoring approach blends amazing teachers with SylvanSyncTMtechnology on the iPad® for an engaging learning experience. Sylvan programs include study skills, math, reading, writing and test prep for college entrance and state exams. Sylvan also provides educational services to public and nonpublic schools. The company was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. For more information, call 1-800-31-SUCCESS, or visitwww.SylvanLearning.com or Sylvan's Mom Minded blog at www.SylvanLearning.com/blog.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.

Founded in 1949 and headquartered in White Plains, NY, LLS has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org. Patients should contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.