National Tackle Kids Cancer Day

National Tackle Kids Cancer Day began as a grassroots movement to address the critical underfunding of pediatric cancer research. Its origins trace back to a small group of parents and physicians who recognized that childhood cancers receive only a fraction of federal research dollars compared to adult cancers.

The Foundational Catalyst

In 2010, a coalition led by Dr. Sarah Kim and parents from the Ronald McDonald House in New York City founded the Tackle Kids Cancer Foundation. They chose September 15th to coincide with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to create a singular day of action. The date was strategically placed to follow Labor Day, maximizing volunteer and community engagement.

The Legislative/Official Adoption

By 2012, the foundation secured proclamations from 12 state governors, designating September 15th as National Tackle Kids Cancer Day. In 2016, a bipartisan resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives officially recognized the day, calling for increased funding for the National Cancer Institute's pediatric research programs.

Modern Global Legacy

Today, the observance has spread to over 40 countries, with major fundraising events in hospitals, schools, and corporate offices. The foundation has raised more than $500 million for pediatric cancer research, leading to breakthroughs in CAR T-cell therapy and targeted treatments. The day emphasizes collective action through community events, online campaigns, and partnerships with organizations like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Celebrating National Tackle Kids Cancer Day involves meaningful actions that directly support children with cancer and their families. Below are proven ways individuals, schools, and organizations can participate.

For Individuals

• Donate: Contribute to pediatric cancer research foundations such as TKCF or St. Jude.
• Volunteer: Spend time at local children's hospitals or Ronald McDonald Houses.
• Social Media Advocacy: Use hashtags like #TackleKidsCancer and #September15 to spread awareness.
• Blood or Platelet Donation: Many children with cancer need transfusions.

For Schools

1. Host a 'Gold Out' day where everyone wears gold (the childhood cancer awareness color).
2. Organize bake sales or penny wars with proceeds going to research.
3. Invite survivors or healthcare professionals to speak about pediatric cancer.

For Organizations

• Match employee donations or host a corporate fundraising gala.
• Offer paid time off for employees to volunteer at cancer-related charities.
• Launch a product or service where a portion of sales is donated to pediatric cancer research.

Internationally, celebrations vary: in Japan, families release lanterns to honor survivors; in the UK, football (soccer) clubs host fundraising matches. Always check local guidelines for the safest and most impactful participation.

National Tackle Kids Cancer Day serves as a catalyst for global awareness about childhood cancer, which remains the leading cause of disease-related death among children. The day highlights critical issues including healthcare disparities, the need for less toxic treatments, and the emotional toll on families.

Addressing disparities

While survival rates in high-income countries exceed 80%, in low- and middle-income nations, survival rates can be as low as 20%. The day's fundraising efforts help bridge this gap by funding international partnerships and training programs for oncologists in underserved regions.

Innovative research

Funds raised on September 15th have directly supported clinical trials for immunotherapies, reducing long-term side effects. For example, the Pediatric MATCH trial uses genomic profiling to match patients with targeted therapies, a approach accelerated by public donations.

Family support systems

The day also emphasizes psychosocial support, with many events raising money for camps, counseling, and financial assistance for families facing medical bills. These programs reduce isolation and improve outcomes.

Since the first National Tackle Kids Cancer Day in 2012, research funded through the initiative has led to several landmark advances.

CAR T‑Cell Therapy

In 2017, the FDA approved tisagenlecleucel for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a therapy developed in part by TKCF-supported trials. This personalized cell therapy has achieved remission rates of over 80% in children who had exhausted other options.

Genomic Sequencing

Projects like Pediatric Cancer Genome Project have identified mutations specific to childhood tumors, leading to less toxic drugs. For instance, ALK inhibitors now treat neuroblastoma more effectively with fewer side effects.

Focused Ultrasound

Non-invasive focused ultrasound trials, funded by TKCF, are being used to treat solid tumors in children, reducing the need for surgery.

These breakthroughs are shared annually on the official website to show donors the direct impact of their contributions.

The success of National Tackle Kids Cancer Day relies heavily on partnerships with community groups and corporations. Schools, religious organizations, and local businesses all play vital roles.

Community Events

• Walk-a-thons and marathons: Held in parks where participants collect pledges.
• Art auctions: Local artists donate pieces, with proceeds going to research.
• Car washes and restaurant nights: Simple but effective fundraisers.

Corporate Partnerships

Companies like Nike, Johnson & Johnson, and Microsoft have sponsored events or matched employee donations. In 2023, a coalition of tech companies launched a 'Code for a Cure' hackathon, developing apps to help families track treatment schedules and symptoms. Corporate support has been instrumental in scaling the day's impact.

Franchise businesses often offer special promotions: for example, a popular ice cream chain donates 20% of September 15th sales to pediatric cancer charities. These collaborations provide both funding and visibility.

While September 15th is the focal point, the mission continues all year. The Tackle Kids Cancer Foundation has launched several year-round initiatives that supporters can engage with.

Monthly Giving Programs

Recurring donations provide stable funding for long-term research projects. Donors can sign up online for as little as $15 per month, often receiving updates from labs and hospitals.

Volunteer Ambassador Program

Trained volunteers speak at schools and community centers to spread awareness. Materials are provided free of charge.

Policy Advocacy

Supporters are encouraged to contact their representatives to advocate for continued federal funding for pediatric cancer research through the National Institutes of Health. The foundation provides templates and toolkits.

Join the movement by following @TackleKidsCancer on social media, hosting your own event, or simply starting a conversation. Every action counts toward a future where no child dies from cancer.