Childhood Cancer Research
In 2026, an estimated 9,680 children (ages 0-14 years) and 5,660 adolescents (ages 15-19 years) will be diagnosed with cancer. Under the National Cancer Institute budget, a small fraction of funding is allocated to pediatric cancer research. Private funding through organizations like the V Foundation has become a critical component of pediatric research support.
Accelerating Victory Over Cancer® for the
Youngest Patients
Research has made substantial progress in treatments for childhood cancers, and survival rates are increasing. But our work is not done. Funding research is a critical component of advancing treatments for children with cancer.
The V Foundation is making a difference for childhood cancer patients and their families. We have awarded over $107.4 million across 261 grants to all-star pediatric cancer researchers nationwide.
Today, 85% of children (0-14) and 88% of adolescents (15-19) with cancer now survive five years or more. Overall, this is a huge increase since the mid-1970s, when the five-year survival rate was about 58%.
in brain, central nervous system, and nerve tumor research
in blood cancer research (including leukemia)
in soft tissue and bone cancer research
in other pediatric cancer research, including $1.7 million in liver cancer research
Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund
Dick Vitale, legendary ESPN broadcaster, V Foundation Board Member, and close friend of Jim Valvano, has long championed childhood cancer research. The V Foundation’s Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund continues to make innovative strides in pediatric cancer, finding breakthroughs, producing new treatment options and saving lives.
Dick has annually hosted the Dick Vitale Gala since 2005, celebrating advances in research, honoring childhood cancer thrivers, and raising critical funds for the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund.
Rallying Together for Children
Every September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we shine a spotlight on the urgent need for cutting-edge research. By joining us this month and all-year long, you help fund lifesaving treatments for children and adolescents facing cancer.