The V Foundation Kicks Off Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month Campaign

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is recognizing Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month by highlighting the need for pediatric cancer research funding through a spotlight on events, partnerships, grants, thrivers and researchers with a goal of stopping childhood cancers. The month-long campaign, in conjunction with long-time partners Dick Vitale and WWE®, highlights the critical need to fund research dedicated to improving treatments, outcomes and quality of life for children with cancer. Cancer is the leading cause of death from disease among children over the age of 1 in the U.S.; however, federal funding is minimal, so private funding from organizations like the V Foundation is vital. The V Foundation has awarded nearly $55 million for pediatric cancer research.

"Pediatrics research is something that is so dear to my heart," said Dick Vitale, longtime V Foundation board member. "I am so proud that my Gala alone has already raised $44 million to help kids battling cancer. Join my team, and help us reach our goal of raising $50 million through the Gala by May 6, the date of the 17^th annual Dick Vitale Gala."

The V Foundation raises funds for pediatric cancer research year-round through initiatives like:

• The annual Dick Vitale Gala: The May 2021 event was a star-studded evening with celebrities and athletes that raised $6.5 million for pediatric cancer research. Next year's honorees are sports stars Keyshawn Johnson, Chris Evert and Scott Drew. Visit dickvitalegala.org to learn more.
• ?Dribble for Victory Over Cancer,' a national event series that will unite universities and communities in the fight to end childhood cancer. Individuals, families, clubs and teams will raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer by dribbling through short on-campus courses across the country. Proceeds will benefit cancer research nationwide through the Dick Vitale Fund for Pediatric Cancer.

Vitale, famous for his unflappable energy, has made it his life's mission to stop pediatric cancer. He donates his book proceeds to the cause, has formed partnerships to raise as much money as possible, and regularly visits with children facing cancer. The Fund in his honor recognizes his invaluable contribution to saving children's lives.

"I want to thank Mr. Vitale for everything he does to fight for us kids," said 13-year-old leukemia survivor Enzo Grande. "Just like Mr. Vitale, I want to raise money for pediatric cancer research so kids don't have to worry about whether or not they will make it. We just want cancer to go away."

The V Foundation and WWE are in the sixth year of their partnership to raise money for pediatric cancer research through Connor's Cure. This September, WWE is raising funds for Connor's Cure through:

• The Connor's Cure Superstar Challenge honoring Connor Michalek, an 8-year-old WWE fan who battled medulloblastoma, a rare tumor that affects the brain and spinal cord. Participants can walk or run any time or place during the month with no set distance or donation required. To learn more or to register, visit v.org/superstarchallenge.
• NFFC Fantasy Football with WWE Superstars The Miz, Kofi Kingston, actor James Roday Rodriguez and Sports Illustrated Senior Fantasy Analyst Michael Fabiano. Each personality will manage a team in separate NFFC Primetime leagues and donate their prize money, with league champions earning $7,000 and a grand prize of $200,000. The Miz and Roday will also donate $1,000 to the V Foundation for any team that finishes ahead of them in their final league standings.
• Wicked Cutz, a premium beef jerky producer, has created a new bacon-flavored beef jerky and will donate 100% of net proceeds in September to Connor's Cure.

WWE's Superstars of Tomorrow campaign will run across their global media assets including television, digital and social media platforms, along with WWE Shop merchandise and a virtual auction program to raise funds.

"Partnering with the V Foundation through Connor's Cure the past six years to support pediatric cancer research has enabled us to raise more than $3.5 million and help over 500 families around the world," said Stephanie McMahon, WWE Chief Brand Officer. "This month, we will combine our forces yet again to raise funds through a variety of initiatives and won't stop until we find a cure."

The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America's largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 2% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity. For more information about the V Foundation's Dick Vitale Fund for Pediatric Cancer or to donate, please visit v.org.

About the V Foundation for Cancer Research

The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator. The V Foundation has funded more than $260 million in game-changing cancer research grants nationwide through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to accelerating Victory Over Cancer®. To learn more, visit v.org.