Research
Childhood cancer receives less than 4% of federal funding for cancer research. This percentage has not changed since Connor’s Heroes started in 2006. Connor’s Heroes actively funds two research funds based in Richmond, Virginia. The discoveries they make in our community will help children all over the world.
Connor’s Heroes Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Fund
Children’s Hospital Of Richmond at VCU established its first pediatric brain tumor biobank, thanks to funding from Connor’s Heroes. The biobank will allow for groundbreaking research to inform treatment for children with brain tumors. With this funding, researchers will preserve and analyze tumor samples, participate in multi-institutional trials and contribute to global advancements in pediatric oncology in the Richmond region.
“This biobank will ensure that families in our area will have access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials that could save their child’s life.” — Marisa Cherry, mom of Lauren who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2013 when she was three years old
Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Support
Since its founding, Connor’s Heroes has funded research for bone marrow transplants (BMT). The Hess Family began funding in memory of their son Jamie who died from leukemia in 2002. In 2023, Connor’s Heroes opened two rooms dedicated to BMT patients on the 12th floor of the expanded children’s hospital. The Connor’s Heroes BMT Play Room was designed with the health needs of the BMT patient who oftentimes must remain isolated from other patients. In The Jamie Hess Bone Marrow Transplant Lab, staff prepare transplant supplies without having to leave the unit. This will maximize efficiency and quality of a child’s bone marrow transplant. Connor’s Heroes is proud to carry on the legacy of The Hess Family by supporting BMT heroes and researchers