Rutledge Cancer Foundation

Overview

The Rutledge Cancer Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. Founded in 2011 after Carley Rutledge, then 15 years old, was diagnosed with Stage IV Ewing sarcoma, the organization aims to ease the impact of cancer on this age group, raise survival rates, and find a cure for sarcomas and other solid tumors.

Mission

The foundation's mission is centered on creating a healthier future for teens and young adults with cancer. It focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by AYAs, including interruptions to education and career, infertility, chronic health issues, emotional distress, financial stress, and secondary cancers. The organization strives to provide high-quality, age-appropriate support programs for these patients and their families, bridging gaps between adult and pediatric cancer centers.

History

Carley Rutledge's diagnosis highlighted the limited advancements in treatment options for sarcomas over the past decades. After a relapse, Carley participated in an immunotherapy clinical trial and experienced a period of remission lasting several years. Unfortunately, her cancer returned, and she passed away in 2021. Her journey sparked a commitment to innovative research and support for AYAs with cancer.

Research Initiatives

The Rutledge Cancer Foundation supports various research projects aimed at developing more curative and less toxic therapies for sarcomas. One notable effort includes funding Dr. Jason Yustein's research at Emory University, focusing on understanding molecular pathways and identifying new therapeutic avenues for Ewing sarcoma. The foundation is also backing the development of an mRNA vaccine for Ewing sarcoma in collaboration with Dr. Timothy Chan from the Cleveland Clinic.

Furthermore, the foundation has contributed to the work of Qana Therapeutics, exploring novel anthracycline development with reduced toxicity. They have also sponsored research into lipid nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery, aiming to move these treatments into clinical trials.

Community and Fundraising

The foundation engages in community events, such as participating in the Colfax Marathon in Denver, to raise awareness and funds. These efforts help establish partnerships with hospitals like Children’s Hospital Colorado to support AYAs with cancer in local communities.

Governance

The organization operates with a strong governance structure, ensuring transparency and diversity in leadership. The board of directors includes professionals from various sectors, contributing their expertise to guide the foundation's mission and operations.

The Rutledge Cancer Foundation's work is significant in the face of limited progress in sarcoma treatments, offering hope for better outcomes for young people battling these cancers.