Press Release:
Gala of Hope Takes Another Step
to Cure Pediatric Brain Cancer
Beavercreek, OH, September 3, 2020 --The Board of Directors of Gala of Hope Foundation announce a milestone grant to Dayton Children’s Hospital to continue their pursuit of new and improved treatment of pediatric brain cancer. This grant, totaling $214,000, advances previously underwritten research into its next phase, bringing Gala’s overall investment into this cutting-edge research to over $400,000.
“Brain cancers account for about 15% of pediatric cancers and are the second most common type of cancer in children. Across the nation, about 5,000 are diagnosed with brain tumors each year, and unfortunately the Dayton region sees significant numbers,” said Jeff Brock, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Dayton Children’s has become a leader in brain cancer treatment and research, one of 16 research partners in an international consortium. Dayton Children’s work is literally recognized around the world, and this next phase will only increase its stature. We are so encouraged by the work of their world-class physicians and researchers, and our Dayton-region children are the winners. One day, Dayton—the city of innovation—will help provide the ultimate answer.”
This grant will help establish a laboratory animal lab that will reproduce tumors to better measure reaction to treatment and environmental factors, and ultimately help define new treatment protocols. There are currently few laboratory animal models for pediatric brain cancer worldwide, and Gala’s grant could establish the most successful in North America.
Barbara Mills, president of the Gala of Hope Board of Directors, added, “When Gala joined with Dayton Children’s in 2016 to initiate this research program, we knew great things would happen for our children, but in four years, this program has already left its mark on dozens who’ve beat their cancer. Their cases are now helping others around the world. Our region is second to none in this arena, and this grant will give Dayton Children’s more advantage for our children.”
September is recognized as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, shedding more light on the realities of these devastating cancers. “How appropriate that we announce and award this grant in September, particularly because the focus of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is the lifesaving research directed at treatment and cures,” continued Brock. “Dayton Children’s is not only serving our children but also becoming a destination for others beyond the region who wish the best care to beat their cancer. We are pleased to continue this partnership.”
Gala of Hope will present their grant to Dayton Children’s at a virtual check presentation on Wednesday, September 9, at 10:30 am.
About Gala of Hope Foundation
Gala of Hope Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization founded in 2014 to serve the Dayton region as a financial resource for cancer patients, cancer treatment, and local cancer research. At its core, Gala of Hope Foundation was created and is sustained by gifts from generous people committed to changing the face of cancer in the Dayton region. The Foundation serves as a grant maker and a voice for Dayton region cancer patients and its cancer care community.
For more information, contact Jeff Brock, Executive Director at 937-239-5482 or visit www.galaofhope.net