Board Member and melanoma survivor Jacqueline Smith receives the 2021 grant for the Claire Marie Foundation at the 37th Annual CCF Gala.
The Children’s Cancer Foundation, Inc. (CCF) is hosting our 38th Annual Gala on November 5, 2022, where we will present $1.1M in research and programs to advance pediatric cancer treatments and cures.
The impact of $1M on pediatric cancer research
Nearly 2,000 children die of cancer each year, and the overall incidence of childhood cancer has been slowly increasing since 1975. Despite significant advances against certain pediatric cancers, there are still some types of pediatric cancer for which there are few or no effective treatments. Organizations like ours are necessary, not just in funding the research for treatments and cures, but in strengthening the pediatric research field, and supporting the innovative thinking. And yet, the cost of research is extraordinary.
Most pediatric clinical trials are operated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI.) For families who have a child with cancer, there is an awareness that the percentage of government research funding allocated for pediatric cancer has languished for years around 4%. Last year, the amount was doubled to 8%, and while promising, that is still a small percentage compared to the funding that adult cancer research receives.
That is where private charities must step in to fill this critical need- and we do.
Why is our Gala important?
The CCF Gala raises funds that we will invest in 2023 research- directly into local research labs. Children are our future. It is our collective obligation to ensure they survive and go on to lead healthy lives. Our Gala ensures that fundraising continues.
CCF gives thanks to our supporters and celebrates our honorees
CCF is grateful for the support of so many incredibly generous sponsors. The full list of 2022 Gala sponsors can be found here. CCF extends our gratitude to our Presenting Sponsor, Pepsi. Their support enables CCF to ensure that vital pediatric cancer research continues and makes a difference in the lives of so many kids. We are also thankful for support from our Partnership Sponsors: Dole Fresh Vegetables, Bimbo Bakeries, Coca-Cola Consolidated, and JOH.
CCF will present the Hero Award to the Bartels family and the Fighter Award to Maryland NECA.
But, most importantly, CCF will be joined by many local families, whose children are not only surviving, but are thriving, thanks to advances in pediatric cancer research. Meet some of these incredible families here. Three of those families share their incredible journey with battling pediatric cancer: Bridget Diveley from Baltimore, Cade Wineke from Westminster, and Danielle Eichner of Rockville.
For more information about CCF or the Gala, contact CCF at info@childrenscancerfoundation.org or call (443) 546-4479
