The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is observing Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month this September. Since its inception, the V Foundation has awarded $30 million in pediatric cancer research grants. Just four percent of federal cancer research funding is dedicated to pediatric cancer. With the help of partners, the V Foundation is making a significant impact in finding cures for the leading cause of death by disease in American children.
While some childhood cancer survival rates have dramatically improved, others remain very low. Nearly 2,000 children die of cancer each year in the U.S., inspiring the V Foundation and its partners in their work to end the dreaded disease.
The V Foundation’s increased commitment to pediatric cancer research is championed by the efforts of its longtime Board Member and ESPN Hall of Fame Sportscaster Dick Vitale. Earlier this year, the 13th Annual Dick Vitale Gala raised a record-breaking $3.7 million for pediatric cancer research, bringing the total raised from the event to more than $25 million.
“There has been nothing that occupies my mind more over the past decade than pediatric cancer awareness and research,” said Vitale. “I have been extensively involved in raising dollars to help kids battling cancer. It is vital that we are united as a TEAM to lend a helping hand to so many youngsters that are confronted with this vicious disease. Our support is mandatory. Let’s all give 110% in pursuit of the goal to beat cancer.”
The V Foundation has also teamed up with WWE and is in the third year of a partnership with Connor’s Cure. Founded by WWE Chief Brand Officer Stephanie McMahon and WWE Executive Vice President Talent, Live Events & Creative Paul “Triple H” Levesque, Connor’s Cure was established in honor of an 8-year-old WWE fan, Connor Michalek, who battled medulloblastoma, a rare tumor that affects the brain and spinal cord. The V Foundation’s Virginia Vine event, held earlier this year, benefitted Connor’s Cure, raising nearly $500,000.
“Finding a cure for pediatric cancer will take everyone’s help. WWE and Connor’s Cure are proud to team up with the V Foundation to raise the funds needed to support the cutting-edge research that will one day find a cure for pediatric cancer,” said McMahon.
Additionally, WWE and O.A.R. united to raise awareness and funds for Connor’s Cure through O.A.R.’s Just Like Paradise tour this summer. Through O.A.R.’s Heard The World Fund, the Just Like Paradise tour benefits Connor’s Cure, with a minimum contribution of $50,000 for pediatric cancer research.
An avid supporter throughout the years, ESPN television and radio personality Mike Greenberg and his wife, Stacy, are donating 100% of all author proceeds from their newest children’s book, MVP: Most Valuable Puppy, to pediatric cancer research through the V Foundation.
“Stacy and I were moved beyond words by the passion Dick Vitale showed for the cause of pediatric cancer research at his gala, and disheartened by the statistics regarding funding,” said Greenberg. “We are proud to donate every penny we receive from MVP to combat pediatric cancer; no one deserves the sincere efforts for a cure more than children and their families.”
In addition to these events and partners, Apple Gold Group has raised more than $1.4 million since 2006 for pediatric cancer through its “March Hoops” fundraiser. And Bristol-Myers Squibb has donated $2.5 million that the V Foundation has invested for the advancement of pediatric immuno-oncology research.
