Stop Children's Cancer, Inc.

Stop Children's Cancer, Inc. is a U.S. nonprofit organization founded in 1981 by a 10-year-old girl named Bonnie, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Bonnie's vision was to raise funds for research to help other children and their families affected by cancer. Following her diagnosis, Bonnie shared her dream with her family, hoping to establish an organization that could make a difference in the lives of children with cancer.

History

Bonnie's determination inspired her family and friends to continue her mission after her passing in 1983 at the age of 12. Initially, the organization focused on providing funding for research equipment, doctors, and seed money to the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Florida College of Medicine. This support helped increase the chances of securing additional grants from larger institutions like the National Institute of Health (NIH).

Research Focus

In 2007, the organization shifted its focus to supporting clinical trials, which are critical for advancing the prevention, control, and cure of childhood cancers. These trials are conducted under strict FDA regulations, enabling researchers to gather vital data for new treatments. As of 2023, Stop Children's Cancer has supported over 65 clinical trials across various childhood cancers, including sarcoma, T-cell lymphoma, and leukemia.

Impact and Funding

To date, Stop Children's Cancer has facilitated the securing of over $23 million for research, leveraging their initial funding to attract larger grants. The organization's commitment has helped increase cure rates for certain types of childhood cancers significantly. For example, when Bonnie was diagnosed, the cure rate for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia was around 35%; today, it exceeds 90%.

Partnerships and Initiatives

Stop Children's Cancer partners with various entities to enhance its mission, including collaborations with Sister Hazel's Lyrics for Life. Through these partnerships, they have established research grants like the Lyrics for Life / Stop Children's Cancer Jeffrey A. Block research grant, supporting critical research in T-cell lymphoma and leukemia.

Notable Commitments

In recent years, the organization has made significant financial commitments to support ongoing research. In 2023, Stop Children's Cancer renewed a $1 million gift to the University of Florida College of Medicine for pediatric cancer research. This funding supports cutting-edge therapies, including nanotechnology vaccines developed by Elias Sayour, M.D., Ph.D., who holds the Stop Children's Cancer/Bonnie R. Freeman Professorship for Pediatric Oncology Research.

Mission and Legacy

Stop Children's Cancer's mission is to prevent, control, and cure childhood cancers through research funding and community partnerships. Bonnie's legacy endures through the organization's dedication to sparing families the hardships her family faced. The organization continues to inspire hope for children worldwide by supporting research that impacts global health outcomes.