Washington, DC (WUSA9) — Each year approximately 175,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer. Many doctors and medical researchers are leading the charge to find new treatments. Hyundai Hope On Wheels has been funding pediatric cancer research for 20 years. On July 10th the nonprofit presented Dr. Jeffrey Toretsky of Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center with a $100,000 Hyundai Impact Award.
Hope On Wheels will give over $15 million to pediatric cancer research programs this year. Since its start in 1998 it has raised over $145 in the fight against the disease.
"Throughout the country talented doctors are working tirelessly to help kids fight cancer by conducting research, or providing bedside care," said Scott Fink, Chairman of the organization's board of directors. "Our goal is to provide these doctors with the grant funds they need to perform their lifesaving work."
July 10th was not only a day to award the medical team, but to celebrate the patients. The children battling cancer at Georgetown Lombardi participated in the program's signature handprint ceremony; where they decorated a white 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. The colorful marks on the official Hope Vehicle represent their journeys, hopes, and dreams.
"I participated in the handprint ceremony when Hyundai Hope On Wheels came to my hospital," said Elizabeth Blair, 12 year old cancer survivor and Youth Ambassador to the program. "I looked forward to this amazing opportunity to share my story, and create more awareness. More awareness can lead to more funding. More funding can lead to more research. And research is the key to finding a cure for kids like me."
For more information on the nonprofit and a complete list of this year's grant recipients, visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org/research.
Additional information provided by St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
