Many of you are as passionate about childhood cancer research as we are at Connor’s Heroes. Let’s face it, we want a world where NO PARENT ever hears the words, “Your child has cancer.” You can direct your passion to Richmond’s first and only research facility focused on childhood cancer. It’s here thanks, in part, to Connor’s Heroes. But mostly because of you! Leading the team of researchers is Dr. Seth Corey. He and Lisa work closely together to make sure that the voices of cancer's youngest patients, our childhood heroes, are heard throughout Richmond's medical community. Educate yourself on the facts of pediatric cancer:*

• 1-2 children are diagnosed with cancer each week in Central Virginia.
• A child's average age at diagnosis is 6 years old while an adult's median age is 66.
• Pediatric cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children, yet it receives less than 4% of all federal cancer research funding.
• Therapies used to treat children are based on adult models: this means greater toxicity and long-term side effects, particularly since treatment plans for kids are generally longer than their adult counterparts.
• Cancer treatments developed specifically for pediatric use are almost nonexistent.
• Cancer is far more common in adults; thus, there is less financial incentive for pharmaceutical companies to invest in drug development just for kids.
• Two-thirds of childhood cancer survivors will suffer significant late and long-term side effects.

You can give in support of pediatric cancer research that is happening in Richmond. You can donate to Connor's Heroes and request the funds are directed to research.

*Source: RVA Cures exhibit at UR Gallery Downtown.