Author: Jennifer Glover

Clinical Trials for Pediatric Cancer: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Pediatric cancer clinical trials are carefully designed, federally regulated research studies that test new or improved treatments for children with cancer. 
  • Child cancer clinical trials are not experimental in the way many parents fear — every treatment used in pediatric oncology today was first proven safe and effective through a clinical trial. 
  • Children who participate in clinical trials are closely monitored by specialized medical teams, and parents have the right to withdraw their child at any time. 
  • Participation in child cancer trials at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is always voluntary, and your child’s oncology team will help you understand whether a trial is a good fit for your family.

If your child has been diagnosed with cancer, your oncology team may talk to you about clinical trials. For many parents, that phrase brings up more questions than answers…and sometimes, real fear. You may wonder whether clinical trials are safe. Whether your child would be treated like a “guinea pig.” Whether saying yes or saying no could change everything.

Those feelings are completely understandable. And the truth is, pediatric cancer clinical trials are one of the most important reasons childhood cancer survival rates have improved so dramatically over the past several decades. Understanding what clinical trials actually are, how they work, and what your rights are as a parent can help you feel more confident navigating one of the hardest decisions you may face.

Child talking to his doctor during a pediatric clinical trial

What Is a Pediatric Cancer Clinical Trial?

A pediatric cancer clinical trial is a research study designed to evaluate whether a new treatment — or a new way of using an existing treatment — is safe and effective for children. Clinical trials may test new medications, new drug combinations, innovative surgical approaches, radiation techniques, or supportive care strategies. They follow a strict protocol, or study plan, that outlines exactly how the trial will be conducted, who is eligible, and what outcomes researchers are measuring.

Clinical trials are the standard pathway through which medical treatments are developed and approved. Every chemotherapy drug, every targeted therapy, and every treatment protocol used in pediatric oncology today went through this process first. Without clinical trials, the treatments your child’s doctors are using right now would not exist.

Why Are Clinical Trials So Important for Children with Cancer?

Childhood cancer is biologically different from adult cancer. Children’s cancers tend to affect fast-growing tissues like blood, bone marrow, and the nervous system, and their developing bodies respond to treatment differently than adults do. That means children need treatments specifically studied in pediatric populations — not simply scaled-down adult therapies.

In the mid‑1970s, only about 60% of children with cancer in the United States survived at least five years; today, thanks to decades of cooperative clinical trials and advances in surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and supportive care, more than 80–85% do. That progress did not happen by accident. It happened because families before you chose to participate in studies that ultimately became the standard of care for children diagnosed after them.

Children with cancer have much higher clinical trial participation than adults. Historical estimates suggest that around 60% of pediatric cancer patients treated at major centers enroll in clinical trials, whereas only about 5–7% of adults with cancer participate in treatment trials. This high participation rate is one of the key reasons childhood cancer research has advanced as rapidly as it has.

Is It Safe for My Child to Participate in a Clinical Trial?

This is one of the most common and important questions parents ask, and it deserves a direct answer. Yes, pediatric cancer clinical trials are designed with your child’s safety as the top priority.

Before any clinical trial reaches your child’s bedside, it goes through extensive review. New treatments are first tested in the laboratory and often in adult patients before they are evaluated in children. Before a pediatric cancer clinical trial can begin in the United States, an independent Institutional Review Board (IRB) must review and approve the study to ensure children’s rights, safety, and welfare are protected. Trials are then monitored throughout their duration by medical teams, data safety monitoring boards, and regulatory agencies.

Your child’s oncology team will never recommend a trial they believe would put your child at unnecessary risk. And importantly, you can withdraw your child from a clinical trial at any time, for any reason, without it affecting the quality of their ongoing care.

Will My Child Be a “Guinea Pig”?

This is perhaps the most common fear parents express, and it is completely understandable. The short answer is no.

Children in pediatric cancer clinical trials are not denied proven treatments. In most pediatric oncology trials—especially the common Phase 3 studies—children receive the current best‑available therapy, and the trial compares that standard approach with a carefully designed variation that researchers hope will further improve cure rates or reduce side effects. In many cases, children treated on a clinical trial receive care that is equal to or potentially better than the existing standard of care.

Clinical trials include extra safety checks on top of the close monitoring children already receive during standard cancer treatment. Because trial protocols spell out regular visits, tests, and symptom reporting in detail—and because side effects must be carefully tracked and reviewed—children in trials often have more structured check‑ins and closer watch for problems, which can help the team spot and respond to complications quickly.

The word “experimental” can sound alarming, but in clinical research, it simply means the treatment is being formally studied. It does not mean your child’s care is a guess.

A researcher working on a clinical cancer trial

What Are the Different Phases of Clinical Trials?

Clinical trials follow a structured progression designed to build evidence at every step.

Phase 1 trials involve a small number of participants and focus primarily on safety. Researchers are determining the appropriate dose and identifying potential side effects. These trials typically enroll 10 to 30 children.

Phase 2 trials expand the group and begin evaluating whether the treatment is effective against a specific type of cancer. These studies may last several months to a few years and typically involve 30 to 60 pediatric participants.

Phase 3 trials are the largest and most common in pediatric oncology. They compare the new treatment against the current standard of care, often involving hundreds or even thousands of patients across many institutions. The majority of children who participate in clinical trials at pediatric cancer centers are enrolled in Phase 3 studies.

Phase 4 trials take place after a treatment has already been approved. These studies continue to monitor long-term safety and effectiveness in broader populations.

How Do I Know If My Child Qualifies for a Clinical Trial?

Eligibility for a clinical trial depends on several factors, including your child’s specific diagnosis, the stage of their cancer, their age, previous treatments they have received, and their overall health. Each trial has defined inclusion and exclusion criteria that outline who can participate.

Your child’s oncology team is the best resource for understanding which trials may be available and appropriate. At specialized pediatric cancer centers, doctors routinely screen patients for clinical trial eligibility and will discuss options with you as part of your child’s treatment planning.

If your child’s current treatment center does not offer a trial that may be a good fit, your oncology team can help you explore options at other institutions. Resources like ClinicalTrials.gov, the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) also maintain searchable databases of active pediatric cancer trials.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is a proud member of the Children's Oncology Group (COG)

What Is the Children’s Oncology Group (COG)?

The Children’s Oncology Group is the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. Supported by the National Cancer Institute, COG is a network of more than 200 member institutions — children’s hospitals, cancer centers, and university medical centers — that collaborate on clinical trials and research studies.

COG develops and coordinates clinical trials across its member institutions, meaning that a child treated at a COG-affiliated center in Nevada can access the same cutting-edge protocols available at major research hospitals nationwide. Nearly every child diagnosed with cancer in the United States will receive care at a COG member institution at some point during their treatment.

What Should I Ask My Child’s Doctor About Clinical Trials?

When your child’s oncologist discusses a clinical trial, you have every right to ask detailed questions. You are your child’s advocate, and understanding the trial fully is part of that role. Questions to consider asking include: 

  • What is the goal of this trial? 
  • What treatment will my child receive, and how does it compare to the standard of care? 
  • What are the possible risks and side effects? 
  • How will my child be monitored during the study? 
  • Will we have extra appointments or tests? 
  • Can we leave the trial if we change our mind? 
  • What happens to my child’s care if we say no? 
  • Will there be any additional costs to our family?

Your oncology team should walk you through the informed consent process thoroughly. Research shows that parents generally find direct conversation with their child’s doctor more helpful than the written consent documents alone. 

Take the time you need. Ask every question. There is no such thing as a question too small when it comes to your child’s care.

What if I Decide a Clinical Trial Isn’t Right for My Family?

Participation in a clinical trial is always voluntary. Choosing not to participate — or not being eligible — will never affect the quality of care your child receives. Your child will continue to receive the best available standard-of-care treatment regardless of your decision.

Some families find peace in contributing to research that may help future children. Others decide that the structure or requirements of a particular trial are not the right fit for their family at that moment. Both decisions are valid, and your oncology team will support you either way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Cancer Clinical Trials

A pediatric cancer clinical trial is a research study that evaluates whether a new treatment, drug, or approach is safe and effective for children with cancer. These studies follow strict protocols and are reviewed by independent ethics boards before any child can participate.

Yes. Pediatric clinical trials go through extensive laboratory testing, regulatory review, and ethics board approval before reaching patients. Children are closely monitored throughout the study, and parents can withdraw their child at any time.

No. Most pediatric cancer clinical trials compare the current best treatment against a potentially improved version. Children in trials often receive care that is equal to or better than the existing standard of care, with additional monitoring and safety protections.

Your child’s oncologist is the best starting point. You can also search ClinicalTrials.gov, contact the National Cancer Institute (1-800-4-CANCER), or ask whether your child’s treatment center is affiliated with the Children’s Oncology Group (COG). Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is a proud member of COG.

No. Clinical trial participation is always voluntary. Your child will receive the best available standard-of-care treatment whether or not they participate in a study.

COG is the world’s largest childhood cancer research organization, supported by the National Cancer Institute. It coordinates clinical trials across more than 200 institutions nationwide, giving children at member centers access to the latest treatment protocols.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B: One Infusion, No More Weekly Treatments

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Gene therapy for hemophilia B targets the root cause of the condition — the faulty gene — rather than replacing the missing clotting factor from outside the body. A single intravenous infusion delivers a working copy of the factor IX gene to the liver, enabling the body to produce its own clotting factor.
  • Cure 4 The Kids Foundation completed Nevada’s first Hemgenix infusion in 2024 and is one of only a handful of centers on the West Coast to have administered this treatment. To date, C4K has successfully completed three Hemgenix infusions.
  • Gene therapy is not a cure. The underlying genetic condition remains, and a person with hemophilia B can still pass the gene to their children. Long-term monitoring is essential.
  • Hemgenix is currently approved for adults only (18 and older). Pediatric gene therapy trials are in development but not yet available for children.
  • New treatment options are expanding rapidly. Beyond gene therapy, the FDA approved fitusiran (Qfitlia) in 2025 — a subcutaneous injection given once every two months that works for both hemophilia A and B, approved for patients aged 12 and older.

Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B: A vial of blood for the Factor IX test

What Does Gene Therapy for Hemophilia Look Like in Practice?

Imagine living your entire life tethered to a treatment schedule. Every week — sometimes multiple times a week — you need an intravenous infusion of a clotting factor just to prevent a bleed that could send you to the hospital. You plan your work around it. Your vacations. Your daily routine. It has been this way since you were a child.

Now imagine a single infusion that could change all of that.

That’s not a hypothetical. It happened right here in Nevada. And it happened at C4K.

What is Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B?

Gene therapy for hemophilia B is a one-time intravenous treatment that delivers a working copy of the factor IX gene to the liver using a modified, harmless virus as a carrier. Once in place, the liver cells begin producing factor IX on their own — the clotting protein the body was never able to make before. Unlike traditional replacement therapy, which requires lifelong intravenous infusions, gene therapy addresses the genetic root cause of the bleeding disorder in a single treatment.

Why Was Nevada’s First Gene Therapy Infusion for Hemophilia a Milestone?

In 2024, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation completed Nevada’s first successful infusion of Hemgenix®, an FDA-approved gene therapy for adults with hemophilia B. C4K is one of only five centers on the West Coast that has administered this treatment — with just two additional centers currently trained to do so. Nationally, the number of sites approved to provide Hemgenix remains extremely limited, making access to this therapy a significant barrier for many patients across the country. To date, C4K has successfully completed three Hemgenix infusions.

The treatment was administered in our infusion suite under the supervision of Dr. Aimee Foord, director of Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic, and Dr. Joseph Lasky, our medical director.

Our first patient was a 39-year-old man from Arizona who had lived with hemophilia B his entire life, requiring regular factor IX infusions to prevent dangerous bleeding episodes. After a single Hemgenix infusion, his body began producing its own factor IX.

More than a year later, he has maintained normal factor levels without a single additional infusion. Our subsequent patients have seen similarly promising results.

While this is a fantastic medical milestone, for this patient, it means so much more: It’s a fundamentally different life.

What Is Hemophilia, and Why Does It Require Lifelong Treatment?

To understand why gene therapy matters, it helps to understand what hemophilia is at its most basic level.

Hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder. People with hemophilia B are missing a working copy of the gene that tells the body how to make factor IX — a protein the blood needs to form clots. Without it, even a minor injury can lead to prolonged, sometimes dangerous bleeding. Internal bleeding, particularly around joints, can cause chronic pain and permanent damage over time.

For decades, the standard treatment has been replacement therapy: regular intravenous infusions of the missing clotting factor. It works, but it’s a lifelong commitment. Depending on severity, a patient may need infusions multiple times per week — every week — for the rest of their life.

How Does Hemgenix Gene Therapy Work?

Gene therapy takes a completely different approach. Instead of replacing the missing protein from outside the body, it addresses the root cause: the faulty gene itself.

Hemgenix works by delivering a functional copy of the factor IX gene directly to the patient’s liver cells using a modified, harmless virus as a carrier. Once the gene is in place, the liver cells begin producing factor IX on their own. The goal is for the body to take over — making the clotting factor it was never able to produce before.

It’s a single, one-time intravenous infusion. Not a daily medication. Not a weekly treatment. One infusion.

Is Gene Therapy a Cure for Hemophilia?

Gene therapy is a remarkable advancement, but it’s important to understand what it is and what it isn’t.

It is not a cure. Hemgenix does not fix or replace the original faulty gene. It adds a working copy. The underlying genetic condition remains, and a person with hemophilia B can still pass the gene to their children. Long-term monitoring is essential.

It is currently approved for adults only. Hemgenix is approved for adults aged 18 and older with hemophilia B who use factor IX prophylaxis or who have a history of serious bleeding episodes. Pediatric gene therapy trials are in development, but this treatment is not yet available for children.

Results can vary. Five-year follow-up data from the Phase 3 HOPE-B study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed that Hemgenix reduced adjusted annualized bleeding rates by 63% through five years post-infusion, with mean factor IX activity levels sustained at 36.1%. In the trial, 94% of patients eliminated factor IX prophylaxis and remained free of continuous prophylaxis through four years. But individual responses differ, and ongoing research continues to track long-term outcomes.

It requires ongoing monitoring. After gene therapy, patients need regular follow-up to track factor levels, liver function, and overall response to treatment. At C4K, our team provides that long-term monitoring and support.

Where Is Gene Therapy for Bleeding Disorders Heading?

Hemgenix was the first gene therapy approved for hemophilia B (2022), and Roctavian became the first approved for hemophilia A in 2023. These approvals represented a new era in bleeding disorder treatment — one that targets the genetic root of these conditions rather than managing symptoms. (Note: BioMarin announced in early 2026 that it is withdrawing Roctavian from the market after commercial challenges. While this is a setback for hemophilia A gene therapy specifically, multiple next-generation gene therapies for hemophilia A are in active clinical development.)

The landscape is evolving rapidly. New therapies are also expanding options for patients. In March 2025, the FDA approved fitusiran (Qfitlia), a different kind of treatment that works by rebalancing the body’s clotting system rather than replacing the missing factor. It’s given as a subcutaneous injection once every two months and is approved for adults and pediatric patients aged 12 and older with hemophilia A or B — offering patients a less burdensome prophylactic option with as few as six injections per year.

Research is also underway to develop gene therapies for children, to improve the durability of factor expression over time, and to explore gene-based treatments for other bleeding disorders beyond hemophilia. The science is moving fast — and C4K is committed to staying at the leading edge of what’s available for our patients.

Infusion/Ambulatory Center

What Does a Life Without Weekly Infusions Look Like?

For someone who has never lived with a bleeding disorder, it’s hard to understand what weekly factor infusions mean in practice. It’s not just the time in a chair. It’s the planning. The anxiety. The constant awareness that without your next infusion, an ordinary injury could become an emergency.

For a child growing up with hemophilia, it shapes everything — what sports they play, whether they go on the school camping trip, how their parents navigate every bump and bruise with a calculation most families never have to make.

Gene therapy doesn’t erase the diagnosis. But for the patients it works for, it can remove the most burdensome part of living with it. And that changes a life.

How Can I Learn More About Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B?

If you or a family member is living with hemophilia B and you want to learn more about whether gene therapy may be an option, our Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic is here to help. Dr. Aimee Foord and our hematology team can walk you through what’s available, what the process looks like, and what to expect.

To schedule a consultation, call us at (702) 732-1493.

At C4K, we believe every patient deserves access to the most advanced care available — right here in Nevada. No patient is ever turned away for financial reasons. That is our promise.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Gene therapy for hemophilia B adds a working copy of the factor IX gene but does not fix or replace the original faulty gene. The underlying genetic condition remains, and a person with hemophilia B can still pass the gene to their children. However, for many patients, gene therapy significantly reduces or eliminates the need for routine factor IX infusions.

Hemgenix is currently FDA-approved for adults aged 18 and older with hemophilia B who use factor IX prophylaxis therapy or who have a history of current or life-threatening bleeding episodes. Eligibility also depends on testing for factor IX inhibitors and liver health. Your hematologist can help determine if you’re a candidate.

Five-year follow-up data from the HOPE-B clinical trial showed that factor IX activity levels remained sustained at a mean of 36.1%, and 94% of patients remained free of continuous prophylaxis through four years. Research is ongoing to track outcomes beyond five years.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation in Las Vegas is the only center in Nevada to have administered Hemgenix gene therapy for hemophilia B. C4K is one of a limited number of centers on the West Coast offering this treatment. To learn more, contact the Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic at (702) 732-1493.

Not yet. Hemgenix is currently approved only for adults aged 18 and older. Pediatric gene therapy trials are in development, and C4K is committed to offering the latest treatments as they become available.

In March 2025, the FDA approved fitusiran (Qfitlia), a subcutaneous injection given once every two months for patients aged 12 and older with hemophilia A or B. Unlike gene therapy or factor replacement, Qfitlia works by rebalancing the body’s clotting system. Your hematologist can help you understand which treatment options are right for you.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

She Wasn’t Clumsy. She Wasn’t Dramatic. She Had a Bleeding Disorder No One Tested For.

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Bleeding disorders in girls are common but commonly missed. Von Willebrand disease is the most common bleeding disorder, affecting boys and girls equally — but girls are far less likely to be diagnosed.
  • Girls wait an average of 16 years for a diagnosis. Heavy periods, easy bruising, and prolonged nosebleeds are often dismissed as normal rather than recognized as symptoms of a bleeding disorder.
  • An estimated 2 million women in the U.S. may have an undiagnosed bleeding disorder. Many families don’t realize their bleeding is abnormal because other women in the family share the same undiagnosed condition.
  • Early diagnosis changes everything. It makes surgeries safer, periods treatable, and protects against life-threatening complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
  • You are not overreacting. If your daughter’s symptoms concern you, ask your pediatrician for a referral to a hematologist. At C4K, no child is ever turned away for financial reasons.

Why Bleeding Disorders in Girls Go Undiagnosed — and What Parents Can Do

She bruised easily. Everyone said she was clumsy.

Her nosebleeds wouldn’t stop. Everyone said she’d grow out of it.

Her periods left her doubled over and anemic. Everyone said that’s “just how it is for some girls.”

She wasn’t clumsy. She wasn’t dramatic. She had von Willebrand disease. And no one tested her for 16 years.

If this sounds familiar — if you’re reading this and thinking about your own daughter, your niece, or even yourself — you’re not alone. And you’re not imagining it.

What Are Bleeding Disorders, and Why Are Girls More Likely to Be Missed?

Bleeding disorders are conditions that affect the blood’s ability to clot properly. They include hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, rare factor deficiencies, platelet disorders, and more. Every March, during Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, the bleeding disorders community comes together to raise awareness about these conditions. Since 2016, when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services expanded what was previously Hemophilia Awareness Month, March has recognized the full spectrum of inheritable bleeding disorders. The red tie is the symbol of this community, representing the blood ties that bind us together.

At C4K, our Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic, led by Dr. Aimee Foord, treats patients of all ages across this full spectrum. We see firsthand what these conditions look like in children — and we see how often they go unrecognized, especially in girls.

Dr. Aimee Foord, Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

Most people hear “bleeding disorder” and think of hemophilia in boys. But the most common bleeding disorder isn’t hemophilia — it’s von Willebrand disease, and it affects boys and girls equally. The difference? Girls are far less likely to be diagnosed.

Here’s why that matters:

Why Are Bleeding Disorders in Girls Dismissed as Normal?

Because girls’ bleeding symptoms look different — and they’re easier to dismiss.

When a boy with hemophilia bleeds into a joint, it’s visible and alarming. When a teenage girl soaks through a pad every hour, misses school every month, and is chronically exhausted, she’s told: “That’s just how it is for some women.” Or: “You’ll regulate eventually.” Or: “Take some ibuprofen.”

Research confirms what many families already feel: women with inherited bleeding disorders often wait well over a decade — about 14 years on average — for a diagnosis, compared to under 10 years for men, even when bleeding begins at similar ages. The problem isn’t that girls aren’t showing symptoms. It’s that their symptoms are being normalized.

There’s another layer to this that we see in our clinic: many families don’t recognize heavy periods as abnormal because other women in the family have the same experience, unknowingly sharing the same undiagnosed condition. Mothers, daughters, aunts, sisters. Generation after generation told their bleeding is normal.

As Dr. Nidhi Bhatt at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has noted, adolescents often don’t feel comfortable talking about their bleeding — and that silence is one of the major reasons heavy menstrual bleeding goes undetected. St. Jude created the EAGER Clinic (Empowering Adolescents with Gynecology and Hematology Resources and Care) to address exactly this gap — bringing hematology, gynecology, and nursing together for adolescent patients. Their data reflects what we see nationally: only 1 in 3 women with heavy menstrual bleeding ever seek care for it.

What Are the Signs of a Bleeding Disorder in Girls?

Every child is different, and heavy bleeding doesn’t automatically mean a bleeding disorder. But these are signs worth discussing with your pediatrician or a hematologist:

  • Periods that last longer than 7 days
  • Soaking through a pad or tampon in an hour or less
  • Passing blood clots larger than a quarter
  • Missing school, sports, or social activities because of her period
  • Chronic fatigue or a diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia
  • Easy bruising or frequent nosebleeds
  • Excessive bleeding after dental work, surgery, or an injury
  • A family history of heavy bleeding, frequent nosebleeds, or hysterectomies due to heavy periods

That last one matters more than many people realize. Von Willebrand disease is inherited. If the women in your family have always had “bad periods,” it’s possible there’s an undiagnosed bleeding disorder running through the family line.

What Happens When a Bleeding Disorder Goes Undiagnosed?

Delayed diagnosis isn’t just frustrating. It causes real harm.

Women who experienced multiple bleeding events before their diagnosis were nearly three times more likely to undergo a hysterectomy — a surgery that, in many cases, could have been avoided with earlier treatment.

Studies show that 74% of women with von Willebrand disease reported excessive bleeding from multiple sites. Twenty-five percent had undergone a hysterectomy, compared to just 9% in control groups. And rates of depression and anxiety in patients with VWD exceed 60%.

For teenage girls, the impact shows up in missed school days, withdrawal from activities they love, chronic exhaustion, and the quiet erosion of confidence that comes from being told — over and over — that nothing is wrong when they know something is.

Symptoms of Von Willebrand Disease

How Does Early Diagnosis Change a Girl’s Life?

When we identify a bleeding disorder early, everything shifts.

Surgeries become safer because the care team knows what they’re working with. Injuries are managed appropriately. Heavy periods can be treated — not dismissed. And the young woman at the center of it finally has answers instead of doubt.

Early diagnosis also protects her future. Women with bleeding disorders face increased risks during pregnancy and childbirth. Knowing about a bleeding disorder before that moment — not during a hemorrhage in the delivery room — can be lifesaving.

Where Can Families Get Help for Bleeding Disorders in Nevada?

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, our Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for children and adults with bleeding disorders. Dr. Aimee Foord and our hematology team specialize in the conditions that are most often missed — especially in girls and young women.

If your daughter’s symptoms sound like what we’ve described here, we want you to know: you are not overreacting. You are not imagining it. And you don’t have to figure it out alone.

To schedule an appointment or request a referral, call us at (702) 732-1493.

No child is ever turned away for financial reasons. That is our promise.

March is Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month

This Month and Beyond

Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month is about more than wearing a red tie — though we hope you’ll do that too. It’s about expanding who we think of when we think of bleeding disorders.

It’s the teenage girl who can’t make it through a school day. It’s the mother who assumes her heavy periods are normal because her own mother had the same thing. It’s the young woman heading into surgery without anyone thinking to check her clotting factors first.

They deserve answers. They deserve care. And at C4K, they’ll find both.

If you think your daughter might have a bleeding disorder, don’t wait. Talk to your pediatrician. Ask for a referral. Or call us directly.

Because she’s not clumsy. She’s not dramatic. And she deserves to know what’s really going on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. As many as 1 in 10 women with heavy menstrual bleeding may have an underlying bleeding disorder such as von Willebrand disease. Signs include periods lasting longer than 7 days, soaking through a pad or tampon in an hour or less, passing large blood clots, chronic fatigue, and iron-deficiency anemia. If your daughter is missing school or activities because of her period, it’s worth discussing with a pediatrician or hematologist.

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder, affecting up to 1% of the population. It occurs when the blood lacks sufficient von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps blood clot. VWD affects boys and girls equally, but girls are often diagnosed later — or not at all — because their symptoms, particularly heavy periods, are frequently dismissed as normal.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests that measure von Willebrand factor levels and clotting function. These are specific tests that your pediatrician can order or a hematologist can perform. Standard blood work such as a CBC does not test for von Willebrand disease, which is one reason it’s so often missed. If your daughter has symptoms, ask specifically for von Willebrand disease testing.

Hemophilia is one type of bleeding disorder, but it’s not the only one — and it’s not the most common. Von Willebrand disease, rare factor deficiencies, and platelet disorders are all part of the bleeding disorders spectrum. Hemophilia is more commonly associated with boys, which has contributed to the misconception that bleeding disorders don’t affect girls. They do.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Clinic, led by Dr. Aimee Foord, provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for children and adults with bleeding disorders in Southern Nevada. No child is ever turned away for financial reasons. Call (702) 732-1493 or visit cure4thekids.org to schedule an appointment or request a referral.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

Why Families Trust Cure 4 The Kids Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Care

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is Nevada’s only dedicated pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center, treating nearly 10,000 patients each year at its Las Vegas facility.
  • The organization has earned national recognition for more than two decades of innovation in pediatric oncology and rare disease care, including the 2026 Gamechanger Award presented by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and a Nevada State Senator.
  • Every child receives care regardless of ability to pay. Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s Charity Care Program ensures no family is turned away for financial reasons.
  • Cure 4 The Kids Foundation employs 100% of Nevada’s board-certified pediatric oncologists, offering families access to the state’s deepest bench of childhood cancer specialists without leaving home.

When your child is diagnosed with cancer, one of the first and most urgent questions is: Where should we go for treatment? Families across Nevada and beyond turn to Cure 4 The Kids Foundation (C4K)—the state’s only dedicated pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center—because of a track record built on clinical excellence, compassionate care, and nationally recognized innovation.

What Makes Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Different from Other Treatment Centers?

Most children’s hospitals have a pediatric oncology department. C4K was purpose-built—from the ground up—to focus exclusively on children with cancer and rare diseases. That single-minded focus shapes everything from staffing and research priorities to the way families experience care.

Founded in 2007 by Annette Logan-Parker, C4K began as a grassroots effort born from a deeply personal mission: ensuring that Nevada children facing life-threatening diagnoses could receive world-class treatment close to home. What started at a kitchen table has grown into a nationally recognized organization with more than 200 team members, Joint Commission accreditation, a CAP-accredited laboratory, and an expansive facility.

The result is a hybrid model that blends the clinical rigor of a major academic medical center with the heart of a nonprofit. C4K delivers research-focused, evidence-based care while maintaining a deeply human approach to supporting entire families—emotionally, practically, and financially.

Annette Logan-Parker holding the Gamechanger Award at the 2026 Starry Starry Night Gala recognizing Cure 4 The Kids Foundation for pediatric and rare disease innovation.

What National Recognition Has C4K Received?

C4K’s impact has been recognized at the highest levels of healthcare leadership. In January 2026, Founder Annette Logan-Parker received the Gamechanger Award at the Starry Starry Night Gala, held at Chaparral Country Club in Palm Desert, California. The award recognized more than two decades of leadership in pediatric and rare disease innovation and was presented by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and a Nevada State Senator representing part of Clark County (District 20), Jeff Stone.

This recognition builds on a history of honors that reflect C4K’s commitment to excellence, including being ranked #4 among the nation’s Best Nonprofits to Work For by NonProfit Times in 2021, recognition on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America, and repeated Top Nevada Workplace designations.

These distinctions matter for families evaluating where to seek care. National recognition isn’t just a trophy on a shelf—it signals that an organization meets or exceeds the standards that define outstanding pediatric healthcare.

Why Does Specialized Pediatric Cancer Care Matter?

Children are not small adults. Their cancers behave differently, require different treatment protocols, and demand a care team that understands the unique needs of growing bodies and developing minds.

At C4K, families have access to Nevada’s board-certified pediatric oncologists—specialists whose entire careers are devoted to treating childhood cancer. This concentration of expertise means faster diagnoses, access to the latest clinical trials and research protocols, and treatment plans tailored specifically to pediatric patients.

Our clinical team includes pediatric oncologists and hematologists, behavioral health professionals, dedicated patient navigators, and more who help families manage everything from treatment schedules to insurance questions. It’s what we call “The C4K Way”—care that extends beyond medicine to support the whole family.

Will My Family Be Turned Away If We Can’t Afford Treatment?

No. One of the founding principles of Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is that no child with cancer will ever be denied treatment because of a family’s financial circumstances.

C4K’s Charity Care Program provides coverage for families who are uninsured, underinsured, or otherwise unable to pay for their child’s cancer or rare disease treatment. This commitment is central to our foundation’s mission and is reflected in our financial stewardship:

More than 90% of C4K’s expenses go directly to program services, meaning the vast majority of every dollar supports patient care.

For families navigating insurance questions, coverage gaps, or financial stress during a cancer diagnosis, C4K provides guidance and support from the very first appointment.

The Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Building at 1 Breakthrough Way in Las Vegas, Nevada

Where Is Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Located?

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is located at 1 Breakthrough Way, Las Vegas, NV 89135, in the Summerlin area of Las Vegas. The facility is designed specifically for pediatric patients, with age-appropriate exam rooms, an onsite infusion center, and more.

C4K also serves families traveling from outside the Las Vegas area and out of state. As Nevada’s only dedicated pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center, C4K regularly cares for patients whose families seek specialized expertise not available in their home community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is a nonprofit pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center. It is an outpatient clinic, not a general hospital.

Yes. C4K accepts most major insurance plans. For families who are uninsured or underinsured, the Charity Care Program ensures that no child is turned away due to inability to pay.

Yes. C4K treats patients from across Nevada and beyond.

C4K treats the full spectrum of childhood cancers, as well as rare diseases and blood disorders. The clinical team includes specialists in pediatric oncology, hematology, rheumatology, and behavioral health.

Yes. C4K holds Joint Commission accreditation—the most rigorous quality and safety standard for medical facilities in the United States—and operates a CAP-accredited laboratory certified by the College of American Pathologists.

What to Do When Your Child is Diagnosed with Cancer

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Ask for a pediatric oncologist, not a general oncologist. Children are not small adults, and they need specialists trained specifically in childhood cancers.
  • Write down your questions before every appointment. Bring a notebook or a trusted person to help you remember what the care team tells you.
  • Seek a specialized pediatric cancer center with access to clinical trials, multidisciplinary care teams, and supportive services for the whole family.
  • You are not alone. Social workers, patient navigators, family support programs, and parent communities exist to help you through this—and you deserve that support.

When the Doctor Says “Cancer”

Nothing can prepare you for hearing that your child has cancer. In that moment, the world narrows to a single, terrifying word, and everything after it becomes a blur. You may not remember what the doctor said next. You may not know what questions to ask. You may feel frozen, panicked, or numb.

All of that is normal.

If you are reading this at 2 AM because your child was just diagnosed—or because you are waiting for test results and bracing yourself—this guide is for you. I wrote it to help you understand what happens next, what questions matter most, and how to find the specialized care your child deserves.

You do not need to absorb everything at once. Bookmark this page. Come back to it. Share it with your partner, a grandparent, or a friend who is helping you navigate this. The information will be here when you are ready.

What Are the First Steps After a Childhood Cancer Diagnosis?

The hours and days immediately after a diagnosis can feel chaotic. Here is what to focus on first.

1. Breathe. You Have More Time Than You Think.

Many childhood cancers, while urgent, do not require treatment within hours of diagnosis. You typically have several days—sometimes a week or more—to gather information, ask questions, and begin to make informed decisions. 

In fact, expert groups in pediatric oncology emphasize that a new diagnosis is overwhelming. Understanding all that is required from this point on is a process that will unfold for you over days and weeks, not just during one high-pressure conversation.

Your child’s medical team will let you know if your situation is an exception.

Right now, the most important thing you can do is be present for your child. They are watching you for cues about how to feel. You do not have to be strong. You just have to be there.

2. Make Sure You Have a Pediatric Oncologist

This is one of the most critical steps. A pediatric oncologist is a doctor who specializes exclusively in cancers that affect children and adolescents. Childhood cancers behave very differently from adult cancers—they respond to different treatments, grow at different rates, and require specialized protocols designed for developing bodies.

And, importantly, children with cancer who are treated at specialized, pediatric cancer centers have better survival outcomes than those treated in lower-volume or non specialty settings. 

So, if your child was diagnosed at a general hospital or by a family pediatrician, ask for a referral to a pediatric hematologist-oncologist at a specialized children’s cancer center. This is not about doubting your current doctor. It is about making sure your child has access to the specific expertise their diagnosis requires.

3. Start a Medical Binder and a Digital Folder

From this point forward, you will be receiving a ton of medical information: lab results, scan reports, treatment plans, medication lists, and care instructions. Start organizing it now.

A simple three-ring binder and folder on your phone and/or computer can make a big difference. Be sure to include sections for diagnosis details, treatment schedules, medication names and dosages, insurance information, and contact numbers for your care team. 

Many parents say this single step helped them feel more in control during an otherwise uncontrollable time.

What Questions Should I Ask My Child’s Oncologist?

You will have many appointments in the coming weeks for diagnostic tests, treatment planning, and care coordination. Having questions prepared helps you get the information you need and feel more active in your child’s care.

Here are the most important questions to ask early in the process:

About the Diagnosis

  1. What is the exact type and subtype of cancer my child has?
  2. What stage is the cancer, and what does that mean for my child specifically?
  3. Are additional tests or biopsies needed to confirm the diagnosis?
  4. Is this type of cancer common in children? What is the general prognosis?

About the Treatment Plan

  1. What treatment do you recommend, and why?
  2. What are the potential side effects—both short-term and long-term?
  3. How long will treatment last?
  4. Will my child need surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination?
  5. Are there clinical trials available for my child’s diagnosis?

About Daily Life During Treatment

  1. Can my child continue going to school? What accommodations might we need?
  2. What symptoms or side effects should prompt an emergency call or visit?
  3. Are there dietary changes or activity restrictions we should know about?
  4. What mental support services—social work, psychology, child life specialists—are available to us?

Do not worry about asking “too many” questions. Your child’s care team expects and welcomes them. If you think of questions between appointments, write them down so you do not forget.

What Should I Expect During My Child’s Cancer Treatment?

Every child’s treatment journey is unique, but understanding the general process can help reduce the fear of the unknown.

Diagnostic Phase

Before treatment begins, your child’s care team will run tests to determine the exact type, location, and extent of the cancer. This may include blood work, imaging scans such as CT, MRI, or PET scans, bone marrow biopsies, or surgical biopsies. This phase can feel like a difficult waiting period, but it is essential for developing the most effective treatment plan.

Treatment Planning

Once the diagnostic workup is complete, the oncologist will present a treatment plan. At a specialized pediatric cancer center, this plan is typically developed by a multidisciplinary team—a group of specialists that may include a pediatric oncologist, surgeon, radiation oncologist, pathologist, radiologist, social worker, psychologist, and child life specialist. This team approach ensures that every aspect of your child’s care is considered, from tumor biology to emotional well-being.

Active Treatment

Treatment may involve chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or some combination. The duration varies widely depending on the diagnosis—some treatment protocols last a few months, while others extend to two or three years.

During active treatment, your child may experience side effects like fatigue, nausea, hair loss, changes in appetite, or increased vulnerability to infections. Your care team will help you manage these side effects and will adjust the treatment plan as needed. Many children tolerate treatment better than parents expect, and your care team will work to maintain your child’s quality of life throughout.

Follow-Up and Survivorship

After treatment ends, your child will continue to see their oncologist for regular follow-up visits. These appointments monitor for any signs of recurrence and manage any long-term effects of treatment. Survivorship care is an important and ongoing part of your child’s journey, and a good pediatric cancer center will have programs specifically designed for childhood cancer survivors.

How Do I Find the Right Pediatric Cancer Specialist?

Not all cancer treatment centers are the same, and where your child receives care can make a meaningful difference in their experience and outcomes. Here is what to look for:

What Makes a Pediatric Cancer Center Different?

  • Board-certified pediatric oncologists who treat childhood cancers exclusively—not adult oncologists who occasionally see children
  • Multidisciplinary care teams that include specialists in surgery, radiology, pathology, psychology, social work, nutrition, and child life
  • Access to clinical trials, which give children the opportunity to receive the newest and most promising treatments
  • Family support services including financial counseling, social work, mental health support, and sibling programs
  • Child-friendly environments designed to reduce fear and support the emotional needs of young patients

Why Specialized Pediatric Care Matters

Children are not small adults. Their cancers are biologically different from adult cancers, and the treatments that work for adults do not always work for children—and vice versa. Pediatric oncologists complete specialized fellowship training focused specifically on childhood cancers, and they follow treatment protocols developed through decades of pediatric-specific research.

Additionally, children’s developing bodies respond differently to treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. A pediatric specialist understands how to balance effective cancer treatment with minimizing long-term impacts on growth, development, fertility, and organ function.

How Do I Take Care of Myself and My Family Right Now?

When your child is diagnosed with cancer, every instinct tells you to focus entirely on them. But your well-being matters too—not as an afterthought, but as an essential part of your child’s support system.

Let People Help

If friends or family offer to bring meals, drive your other children to school, or sit with you during appointments—let them. Many parents feel guilty accepting help, but the people in your life want to support you. Consider setting up a meal train, a shared calendar, or designating one person as the “point of contact” who can relay updates to your wider circle so you do not have to repeat difficult information over and over.

Seek Emotional Support

A childhood cancer diagnosis affects every member of the family. Many pediatric cancer centers offer counseling for parents, therapeutic support for siblings, and child life services to help your child cope with their treatment. You may also find comfort in connecting with other parents who are going through—or have been through—a similar experience. Ask your child’s care team about parent support groups, both in-person and online.

If you notice yourself feeling persistently overwhelmed, unable to sleep, or struggling to function, please reach out to a mental health professional. You are going through one of the hardest experiences a parent can face, and you deserve support too.

Talk to Your Child Honestly

Children are perceptive. Even very young children can sense when something is wrong, and the unknown is often more frightening than the truth. Work with your child’s care team to find age-appropriate ways to explain what is happening. Honesty, delivered with reassurance, helps children feel safe and builds trust during a time when so much feels uncertain.

What About Insurance, Bills, and Financial Help?

The financial dimension of a childhood cancer diagnosis can feel almost as overwhelming as the medical one. Treatment is expensive, and even families with good insurance often face significant out-of-pocket costs.

Here is what to know:

Financial stress is real, and it is valid. But help is available, and you do not have to figure it out alone. Your child’s treatment center should have a dedicated team to help you navigate every aspect of the financial side.

Finding Specialized Pediatric Cancer Care in Nevada

If you are a family in Nevada, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is the state’s only dedicated pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center, and we currently employ 100% of Nevada’s board-certified pediatric oncologists. Located at 1 Breakthrough Way in Las Vegas, our clinic provides comprehensive cancer care for children and adolescents, from diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s care model includes board-certified pediatric oncologists, a full multidisciplinary team, access to clinical trials, behavioral health support, genetic counseling, and dedicated family support services. Our foundation was established in 2007 with a simple but powerful promise: no child with cancer will be turned away because of an inability to pay.

You Are Not Alone in This

A childhood cancer diagnosis changes everything, but it does not mean you are navigating this alone. From the medical team caring for your child to the social workers helping your family to the other parents who understand exactly what you are going through, there is a community of support waiting for you.

Take it one day at a time. Ask every question you have. Accept every hand that reaches out. And know that the strength you need is not something you have to find on your own.

It is something that will be built, day by day, by the people standing beside you.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

Frequently Asked Questions

The first and most important step is to make sure your child is connected with a board-certified pediatric oncologist at a specialized children’s cancer center. Pediatric cancers require treatment protocols designed specifically for children, and a pediatric specialist has the training and experience to guide your family through this process.

Ask your child’s pediatrician for a referral to a pediatric hematologist-oncologist. You can also search the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) directory or contact a children’s hospital in your area. If you are in Nevada, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is the state’s only dedicated pediatric cancer treatment center.

Many childhood cancers are highly treatable, and survival rates have improved significantly over recent decades. The prognosis depends on the type and stage of cancer, your child’s age and overall health, and the treatment plan. Your child’s pediatric oncologist can give you the most specific and accurate information for your child’s individual diagnosis.

Work with your child’s care team, especially child life specialists, to find age-appropriate language. Be honest, be reassuring, and let your child ask questions at their own pace. Children generally cope better when they have some understanding of what is happening, even if the details are simplified for their age.

Many resources exist, including hospital charity care programs, nonprofit organizations like the National Children’s Cancer Society and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, state Medicaid programs, and federal protections like FMLA for work leave. Your hospital’s social worker or financial counselor is the best first point of contact for identifying programs available to your family.

The Golden Hour: What Happens When Your Child Spikes a Fever During Cancer Treatment

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • The Golden Hour is the critical 60-minute window to deliver antibiotics when a child with cancer spikes a fever.
  • Children with central lines (the tubes that deliver chemotherapy) are at high risk for serious infection because their immune systems are weakened.
  • Cure 4 The Kids Foundation reduced its average time to antibiotics from 85 minutes to 33 minutes, exceeding national benchmarks.
  • These results match or exceed outcomes from major academic children’s hospitals, achieved in an outpatient setting.
  • The improvement came from frontline staff examining every step of the process and finding ways to move faster—no expensive technology required.

When your child spikes a fever during cancer treatment, time slows down and speeds up all at once. You’re watching the clock. You’re watching your child. You’re watching the team move around you and wondering if everything is happening fast enough.

I’ve talked to enough parents to know that feeling. It stays with them.

I want to tell you what our team has been doing to honor that urgency.

What Is the Golden Hour in Pediatric Oncology?

The Golden Hour refers to the critical 60-minute window to deliver antibiotics to a child with cancer who develops a fever. Because chemotherapy weakens the immune system, children with central lines—the tubes that deliver treatment directly into their bloodstream—are at high risk for serious infection. Their immune systems can’t fight infection the way ours can, and that’s why getting antibiotics started within 60 minutes can be lifesaving.

What is Febrile Neutropenia?

You may hear your care team use the term “febrile neutropenia.” This simply means fever in a child whose immune system has been weakened by chemotherapy. “Febrile” means fever, and “neutropenia” means the body has very few neutrophils, which are the white blood cells that fight infection. So, because your child’s body can’t fight infection on its own, febrile neutropenia is treated as a medical emergency.

Where We Started

I believe in being honest with our families, and with ourselves. So here’s where we were a year ago: our average time was 85 minutes.

To put that in perspective, nationally, roughly half of pediatric emergency departments consistently meet the 60-minute goal. Major academic children’s hospitals—institutions with 24-hour pharmacies, dedicated emergency departments, and teams of residents—report median times between 55 and 75 minutes. Some published studies show baselines over 90 minutes prior to launching improvement initiatives.

We weren’t behind. By national standards, we were in the middle of the pack.

But “middle of the pack” isn’t good enough when it’s your child with a fever. Our team knew we could do better.

Why Outpatient Specialty Centers Can Move Faster

Here’s something important to understand: hospitals and outpatient centers are built for different things.

Hospitals are designed to handle everything—trauma, surgery, complex inpatients, emergencies of every kind. That breadth is their strength. But it also means a child with a fever may be one of dozens of urgent situations competing for attention at any given moment.

An outpatient specialty center like Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is different. We do one thing: care for children with cancer and rare diseases. When a child with a central line spikes a fever, they’re not waiting behind a car accident or a cardiac event. Our team knows them. Their chart is already open. The pharmacist who will compound their antibiotic is thirty feet away, not in a central pharmacy serving an entire hospital.

Neither model is better. They serve different purposes. But for this specific situation—a known patient, a predictable emergency, a race against the clock—the focused outpatient model has real advantages. And our team has learned to use every one of them.

Kids receiving infusions at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

How Our Team Cut Time to Antibiotics in Half

This is the part that makes me proud.

A group of nurses, providers, pharmacists, and lab staff came together—not because anyone made them, but because they saw a problem and wanted to fix it. They walked through every step of the process. They asked hard questions. They challenged the way things had always been done.

They found minutes hiding everywhere. In the compounding suite. In the order sets. In the handoffs between teams. In the small hesitations that happen when people aren’t sure if they should ask for help.

And then they fixed them. One by one.

There was no magic solution. No expensive new technology. Just people who cared enough to look honestly at their work and commit to doing it better.

Where We Are Now: Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s Golden Hour Results

Throughout 2025, we tracked every antibiotic administered to a patient with a central line.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s Time to Antibiotics (2025)

Starting Baseline
85 minutes
2025 Average
57 minutes
December 2025
33 minutes
National Benchmark
60 minutes
National Pediatric ED Range
55–90+ minutes

We now consistently meet the Golden Hour benchmark. Some months, we’re well under it.

For context: These results put us on par with the best published outcomes from major academic children’s hospitals around the country—and we’re doing it as an outpatient clinic, without a 24-hour pharmacy, without a dedicated emergency department, without the infrastructure those institutions have.

Why I’m Sharing This

I’m not sharing this to brag. I’m sharing it because families deserve to know.

When I started Cure 4 The Kids Foundation in 2007, it was because I believed Nevada families shouldn’t have to leave home to get excellent care for their children. I’d seen too many families torn apart by distance—siblings separated, parents missing work, support systems left behind—because the assumption was that “real” pediatric cancer care happened somewhere else.

I wanted to build something that proved that wrong. This—what our team did in 2025—is that proof. Not because I told them to. Because it’s who they are.

To Our Families

If your child is being treated at C4K, here’s what I want you to know:

When your child spikes a fever, we feel the urgency too. We’re not just going through the motions. We’ve built systems to move fast, and we hold ourselves accountable to using them. We track our own performance—not because someone makes us, but because your child deserves that kind of attention.

You trusted us with the most precious thing in your life. This team takes that seriously. Every day. Every patient. Every minute.

Click Here to Explore Patient and Caretaker Resources

To the Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Team

I’ve watched this organization grow from a kitchen table idea to what it is today. I’ve seen a lot of things I’m proud of.

This is near the top.

Not because of the numbers—though they’re remarkable. Because of what the numbers represent: a team that looked at itself honestly, identified where it could do better, and then actually did it. Without excuses. Without waiting to be told.

That’s the C4K Way. And you lived it.

When I started C4K, people told me Nevada couldn’t support this kind of care. That families would always have to leave.

This team just proved them wrong, 33 minutes at a time.

This is why I built C4K. This right here is the whole point.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

Why Pediatric Cancer Requires Specialized Care

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Children are not small adults. Pediatric cancers differ biologically from adult cancers and require treatment protocols designed specifically for growing bodies.
  • Specialized centers have better outcomes. Children with cancer treated at specialized, pediatric cancer centers where care is standardized and multidisciplinary have better survival outcomes than those treated in lower-volume or non specialty settings.
  • Growing bodies need growing expertise. Treatment must account for developing organs, bones, and brains—protecting your child’s future health while fighting cancer today.
  • Pediatric oncology teams are uniquely trained. From oncologists to nurses to child life specialists, every team member understands the specific needs of children with cancer.
  • The right center offers more than medicine. Comprehensive pediatric programs provide family support, educational continuity, and age-appropriate emotional care throughout treatment.

When your child is diagnosed with cancer, you want answers—and you want them now. One of the most important decisions you’ll face is where your child will receive treatment. Here’s what every parent needs to know about why specialized pediatric cancer care matters.

Why Can’t My Child Be Treated at a Regular Hospital?

This is one of the first questions many parents ask after their child’s diagnosis. It’s a fair question, especially when a well-respected hospital is close to home.

The short answer: Your child can receive care at many hospitals, but the quality of that care varies dramatically. Pediatric cancer is rare, highly specialized, and fundamentally different from adult cancer. Treatment requires expertise that most general hospitals simply don’t have.

Here’s why that matters for your child.

Children’s Bodies Are Different—And So Are Their Cancers

Childhood cancer isn’t the same disease as adult cancer. The types of cancer children develop, where they originate, and how they behave are biologically distinct.

Different Cancer Types 

The most common childhood cancers—leukemias, brain tumors, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, and lymphomas—are rarely seen in adults. Meanwhile, the cancers most common in adults (breast, lung, colon, prostate) almost never occur in children.

Different Biology 

Pediatric tumors often grow faster than adult cancers, but they also frequently respond better to treatment. This means protocols must be precisely calibrated—aggressive enough to work, but carefully designed to minimize long-term damage.

Different Causes

While many adult cancers are linked to lifestyle factors or environmental exposures over time, most childhood cancers arise from genetic changes during normal development. This means prevention strategies that work for adults don’t apply to children, and treatment approaches must account for these genetic differences.

Growing Bodies Need Specialized Treatment Protocols

Perhaps the most critical reason for specialized care is what’s happening inside your child’s body right now: growth.

Children’s organs, bones, brains, and hormonal systems are still developing. Cancer treatment—including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery—can affect that development in ways that don’t apply to fully-grown adults.

Brain Development 

A child’s brain continues developing into their mid-twenties. Radiation and certain chemotherapies can impact cognitive development, memory, and learning. Pediatric specialists know which treatments carry these risks and how to modify protocols to best protect neurological function.

Bone Growth

Treatment can affect growth plates, potentially impacting height and skeletal development. Pediatric teams monitor growth carefully and adjust approaches when possible.

Fertility Preservation 

Some treatments affect future fertility. Pediatric specialists discuss preservation options before treatment begins—conversations that require specialized knowledge about age-appropriate options.

Heart and Organ Health 

Certain chemotherapy drugs can affect heart function differently in children than adults. Pediatric protocols include specific monitoring and dosing adjustments to protect developing organs.

Adult oncologists—even excellent ones—aren’t often trained to navigate these developmental considerations. Pediatric oncologists spend their entire careers understanding how to balance effective treatment with protecting a child’s future.

The Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Building at 1 Breakthrough Way in Las Vegas, Nevada
Cure 4 The Kids Foundation at 1 Breakthrough Way, Las Vegas, NV 89135

Specialized Centers Have Access to Pediatric-Specific Clinical Trials

When standard treatments aren’t enough, clinical trials offer hope. But pediatric clinical trials are different from adult trials—and they’re only available at certain centers.

Why this matters: In the United States, at least half—and in many series more than 60%—of children with cancer are treated on clinical trials, compared to a small minority of adults (generally less than 5%). 

High participation in pediatric-specific clinical trials, often coordinated through national cooperative groups, has been a key driver of the dramatic increase in childhood cancer survival from around 60% in 1970 to over 85% today.

Pediatric cancer programs participating in research give families access to the latest treatment advances. General hospitals typically don’t participate in these networks, often because they lack a dedicated pediatric oncology program.

What Makes a Pediatric Cancer Team Different?

Specialized pediatric cancer care isn’t just about having a doctor who treats children. It’s about an entire team trained to care for young patients and their families.

  • Pediatric oncologists and hematologists: Physicians who completed fellowships specifically in childhood cancer, with ongoing training in the latest pediatric protocols.
  • Pediatric oncology nurses: Nurses certified in administering chemotherapy to children, managing pediatric ports and central lines, and recognizing symptoms specific to young patients.
  • Child life specialists: Professionals trained to help children understand and cope with their diagnosis and treatment through play, preparation, and emotional support.
  • Pediatric psychologists and social workers: Mental health professionals who specialize in helping children and families navigate the emotional impact of cancer.
  • Pediatric pharmacists: Pharmacists who understand pediatric dosing—which is calculated differently than adult dosing and requires specialized expertise to ensure safety and effectiveness.
  • Educational liaisons: Staff who coordinate with your child’s school to maintain educational continuity during treatment.

This multidisciplinary approach is essential for comprehensive care.

What to Look for in a Pediatric Cancer Program

Not all pediatric programs are equal. When evaluating where your child will receive care, consider these factors:

  • Board-certified pediatric oncologists and hematologists. Confirm that physicians are specifically trained and certified in pediatric oncology—not adult oncologists who “also see children.”
  • Multidisciplinary care team. Look for programs with dedicated pediatric oncology nurses, child life specialists, social workers, and mental health support integrated into the care team.
  • Clinical trial access. Ask whether the program participates in the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) or other pediatric research consortiums. Access to clinical trials can be lifesaving.
  • Survivorship programs. Long-term follow-up care is essential. Ask about dedicated survivorship clinics that monitor for late effects of treatment into adulthood.
  • Family-centered support services. Comprehensive programs offer family support including financial counseling, sibling support, educational coordination, and caregiver resources.
  • Experience with your child’s specific diagnosis. Pediatric cancers are rare, and some are extremely rare. Ask how many children with your child’s diagnosis the center treats annually.

The Survival Rate Difference

The progress in childhood cancer survival is one of medicine’s greatest success stories. Today, more than 80% of children with cancer in countries like the US survive at least five years, compared with less than 25% in the 1960s.

But this progress happened because of specialized pediatric research and treatment—not in spite of it. The dramatic improvements came from pediatric-specific clinical trials, protocols designed for children’s bodies, and care delivered by teams dedicated exclusively to young patients.

When families choose specialized pediatric cancer care, they’re giving their child access to the expertise that created these survival rates.

Your Child Deserves Specialized Care

As a parent, you’re your child’s most important advocate. Understanding why specialized care matters is the first step in ensuring your child receives the best possible treatment.

Pediatric cancer is rare, and it requires rare expertise. The physicians, nurses, and support staff at dedicated pediatric cancer programs have devoted their careers to one mission: helping children survive cancer and thrive afterward.

Your child is not a small adult. They deserve care designed for exactly who they are: a child with their whole life ahead of them.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

NSBoME Seeks Genetic Counseling Advisory Council Representative

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • The Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners (NSBoME) is seeking a public, non-medical representative to serve on its Genetic Counseling Advisory Council
  • With the passage of SB189, Nevada is implementing new licensure and oversight for genetic counselors
  • Clinical expertise is important, but so is that of patients and other public representatives with lived experience

If You’ve Ever Said, “Patients Deserve a Seat at the Table,” This is That Seat

We say it often in healthcare conversations—sometimes in frustration, sometimes in hope:
 
“Patients deserve a seat at the table.”
 
Right now, Nevada has an open chair, and no one from the public has stepped into it yet.
 
The Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners is seeking a public (non-medical) representative to serve on its Genetic Counseling Advisory Council. While applications have been submitted by licensed professionals, no application has been received from someone representing the public—the very perspective this seat was created to bring forward.

How We Got Here and Why It’s Important

With the passage of SB189, Nevada is implementing new licensure and oversight for genetic counselors. These decisions will shape how genetic counseling is delivered across the state for years to come.
 

Genetic counseling touches some of the most personal moments in a family’s life, including:

  • Cancer diagnosis and treatment decisions
  • Rare disease identification
  • Newborn screening and early intervention
  • Predictive and preventive health planning
Policy decisions made now will influence access, quality, and patient experience long into the future.

Why the Public Voice is Essential

Clinical expertise is critical, but it is not complete on its own. Public representatives bring lived experience, community context, and accountability to advisory bodies. They ask different questions, notice different gaps, and help ensure that regulations remain grounded in real-world impact—not just theory or workflow.
 
This role is not about opposing medical expertise. It is about balancing it.
 

Who Should Consider Applying

This position is intentionally designed for someone outside the medical profession. Strong candidates may include:
 
  • Patients or parents who have navigated cancer or rare disease diagnoses
  • Caregivers who understand the human impact of clinical decisions
  • Community leaders or advocates focused on health equity
  • Nevadans who believe public trust is strengthened through inclusion

If you’ve ever found yourself explaining medical information, advocating for a loved one, or asking, “How will this affect families?” you are already bringing the perspective this council needs.

Annette Logan-Parker

Why This Matters to Me

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, we see every day how regulatory decisions ripple into exam rooms, infusion chairs, and family kitchens. When patients and the public are included early—before policies are finalized—the result is stronger governance, better outcomes, and greater trust.
 
This advisory council seat is not symbolic.
 
It is influential.
 
And it is open right now.

How to Apply

Interested individuals should submit:
 
*A resume or CV
*A brief statement of interest
 
Send materials to:

Sarah A. Bradley, JD, MBA
Deputy Executive Director
Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners
bradleys@medboard.nv.gov
 
Applications will be reviewed later this month.

A Final Invitation

We often talk about patient-centered care. This is patient-centered governance.
 
As I said at the beginning, if you—or someone in your network—has ever said, “Patients deserve a seat at the table,” please understand that this is that very seat and your perspective is needed.
 
Please apply or help spread the word across Nevada.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

Unconditional Access to Pediatric Cancer Care: Our Promise to Every Child

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • Cure 4 The Kids Foundation never denies care to a child with cancer for any reason
  • Our open-access pediatric oncology model means treatment is never conditional on insurance, ability to pay, or research participation
  • We complement research-focused institutions by ensuring every child has a place to receive care
  • Nevada families can access specialized pediatric cancer treatment close to home

There are moments in healthcare when values are tested in real time, with real families, under impossible circumstances.

A childhood cancer diagnosis is one of those moments.

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, we made a decision long ago about how we would respond when a child is diagnosed with cancer. That decision has never changed:

We do not turn away a child with cancer—ever.

  • Not for financial reasons
  • Not because of insurance limitations
  • Not because a diagnosis is complex or rare
  • Not because a child’s care journey has already begun elsewhere
  • Not because a family is unable—or unwilling—to participate in research or clinical trials

Every child with cancer who is referred to Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is accepted and treated.

What Is Open-Access Pediatric Oncology?

Unconditional access is more than an operational policy. It is a moral stance.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation operates under an open-access pediatric oncology model, which means that care is never conditional. A child does not have to qualify financially. A family does not have to navigate eligibility thresholds. A diagnosis does not need to fit neatly into a predefined category. And participation in research is never a prerequisite for receiving care.

Cancer does not wait for approvals. It does not pause while families sort through insurance. And it does not respect institutional boundaries or protocols.

Children deserve care when they need it—not when they qualify for it.

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, medically necessary cancer treatment comes first. Everything else follows.

Why Our Model Differs from Research-Based Pediatric Cancer Programs

Many people assume that all pediatric cancer programs function the same way. They do not.

Some nationally recognized institutions are built primarily around research and clinical trials. These centers are essential to advancing cures and improving outcomes—and their work saves countless lives. But research-based models necessarily operate under selective admission criteria. Eligibility requirements, protocol design, study capacity, and institutional limitations all determine which children can be accepted.

The result is a reality that is not widely understood: more children are referred to these institutions than can ultimately be admitted, even though public perception often suggests that every child referred is treated. 

Moreover, enrollment and attendance decline for adolescents compared with younger children, highlighting that not all who could benefit from these centers actually receive care there. This is often because of referral patterns, insurance, geographic distance, and capacity restraints as well.

This is not a criticism. It is simply how research-driven systems function. But it does create a gap—and that gap is where families can feel lost, frightened, and unsure of where to turn next.

How We Ensure No Child Falls Through the Cracks

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation exists to fill that gap.

We ensure that every child with cancer has a place to go, especially when:

  • A child does not qualify for a research protocol
  • A family chooses not to participate in a clinical trial
  • Treatment has already begun elsewhere
  • A child requires long-term outpatient management close to home

Our role is not to replace research hospitals. It is to complement them—by providing continuity, stability, and access for every child who needs care.

In our model, no child is excluded because they are “too complex,” “not eligible,” or “already treated.” Every child with cancer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is screened for appropriate clinical trials or research opportunities, so families are aware of all available options. Participation is always voluntary, and care is never contingent on enrollment.

Financial Assistance for Pediatric Cancer Treatment

For many families, the financial impact of childhood cancer begins immediately. Jobs are disrupted. Insurance coverage changes. Costs escalate quickly and unpredictably.

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, those realities do not determine whether a child receives care.

Children are never denied treatment because of insurance status or ability to pay. Charity care is built into our operations so that financial hardship never becomes a barrier to medically necessary cancer care.

This commitment is not symbolic. It is embedded in how we operate, how we plan, and how we show up for families—every day.

Pediatric Cancer Care Without Research Conditions

Research and clinical trials are vital to the future of pediatric cancer care. They are an important option for many families—but they are not the right option for every child, at every moment.

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, care is never contingent on research participation.

Families are supported in making informed decisions without fear that declining a study—or being ineligible for one—will limit access to treatment. The child comes first. Always.

The Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Building at 1 Breakthrough Way in Las Vegas, Nevada

Our Promise to Nevada Families

Unconditional access is not a tagline. It is not a marketing phrase. It is a promise—one that is kept quietly, consistently, and without exception.

Every child with cancer who is referred to Cure 4 The Kids Foundation receives care. Access to treatment is never contingent on ability to pay, insurance coverage, prior treatment history, or participation in research.

This is the standard we hold ourselves to. This is the responsibility we carry. And this is why Cure 4 The Kids Foundation exists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Cancer Care at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

We are often asked:

Does Cure 4 The Kids Foundation accept patients without insurance?

Yes. Cure 4 The Kids Foundation never denies care based on insurance status. Charity care is built into our operational model to ensure that financial circumstances never prevent a child from receiving medically necessary cancer treatment.

Do children have to participate in clinical trials to receive treatment?

No. While we screen all patients for appropriate clinical trial opportunities and inform families of available options, participation is always voluntary. Care at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is never contingent on enrollment in research protocols.

Can Cure 4 The Kids Foundation treat children who have already started treatment elsewhere?

Yes. We accept children at any point in their cancer journey, including those who have already begun treatment at another facility. Our open-access model ensures continuity of care regardless of treatment history.

Is Cure 4 The Kids Foundation only for Nevada residents?

While we serve as Nevada’s only pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center, we accept referrals from families throughout the region. Our mission is to ensure that any child with cancer who is referred to us receives care.

Support Unconditional Access to Pediatric Cancer Care

Unconditional access to pediatric cancer care doesn’t happen by accident. It exists because a community chooses to care for its children and supports the systems that make that care possible.

If this approach matters to you, we invite you to learn more about Cure 4 The Kids Foundation or support our work in ways that feel right to you. Every form of support helps ensure that children with cancer can receive the care they need, close to home and without conditions.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.

Why the UN’s Childhood Cancer Recognition Matters for Nevada Families

Posted on by Jennifer Glover

Key Takeaways:

  • The United Nations is poised to formally recognize childhood cancer in its Fourth High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases—a historic first that could reshape global and local healthcare priorities.
  • Because the draft declaration did not pass by consensus in September 2025, it must go to a formal vote of the full UN General Assembly, where the childhood cancer language remains vulnerable to removal.
  • For Nevada—a state with significant pediatric subspecialty shortages—global recognition would strengthen funding pathways, research partnerships, and legislative momentum for childhood cancer and rare disease care.
  • Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, as a member of Childhood Cancer International (CCI), is calling on Nevada’s healthcare community, policymakers, and advocates to support retaining childhood cancer in the final declaration.

Every week at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, a child sits across from us whose entire future depends on timely diagnosis, coordinated care, and a system strong enough to support their family through the fight of their lives. These aren’t hypothetical scenarios or distant policy discussions—they’re the reality for Nevada families navigating childhood cancer right now.

That’s why what’s happening at the United Nations matters deeply, not just in theory, but in the most practical, immediate, life-changing ways.

For the first time in history, the draft Outcome Declaration for the UN’s Fourth High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) includes childhood cancer. This represents a breakthrough moment in global health policy—one that has the potential to reshape how nations prioritize, fund, and coordinate pediatric cancer care.

And it is fragile.

Understanding the Stakes: What’s Happening at the UN

The UN’s High-Level Meetings on NCDs occur approximately every 4–7 years and set the global agenda for how countries address diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. Historically, these declarations have focused almost exclusively on adult populations, leaving childhood cancer—and the unique needs of pediatric patients—largely invisible in global health policy.

The current draft declaration changes that. For the first time, childhood cancer is explicitly named, acknowledging that children face distinct challenges that require dedicated attention, resources, and systems of care.

However, because the declaration did not achieve consensus approval during the September 2025 session, it must now proceed to a formal vote before the full UN General Assembly. Until that vote occurs—which could be scheduled at any time—the childhood cancer language remains vulnerable. 

It can still be amended, weakened, or removed entirely.

Globally, childhood cancer is diagnosed in approximately 400,000 children each year. In the United States, cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease after infancy among children. Yet despite this, pediatric oncology has historically received a fraction of the research funding and policy attention given to adult cancers.

The Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Building at 1 Breakthrough Way in Las Vegas, Nevada

Why Nevada Cannot Afford to Lose This Moment

Nevada faces unique challenges in pediatric healthcare that make global recognition of childhood cancer particularly consequential for our state.

We have one of the lowest ratios of pediatric subspecialists per capita in the nation. In fact, according to a sobering KNPR report, “depending on where you look, the state ranks between 46th and 49th in number of pediatric doctors per capita.” Families in rural Nevada often travel hundreds of miles (including across state lines) to access specialized care, and our state has historically ranked among the lowest for children’s healthcare access and outcomes.

These aren’t failures of will—they’re structural gaps that require sustained policy attention, dedicated funding streams, and workforce development initiatives to address. Global recognition of childhood cancer as a priority area for NCDs would provide critical support for the work Nevada has already begun.

How the UN Declaration Aligns With Nevada’s Strategic Healthcare Priorities

At Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, our strategic plan—Here We Grow Again—is built around five pillars: Disruption, Radical Relationships, Innovation, Workforce Development, and Equity in Access. The inclusion of childhood cancer in the UN declaration strengthens each one.

Disruption: Building What Children Truly Need

Childhood cancer has been overlooked globally for decades because healthcare systems were structured around adult needs. The assumption that pediatric care could simply be scaled-down adult care has proven inadequate—children’s bodies, developmental stages, and long-term survivorship needs are fundamentally different.

Experts and advocates in Nevada have long rejected that model. Recognition at the UN level validates what we’ve known: children are not small adults, and their care cannot be an afterthought. This global acknowledgment creates leverage for continued investment in pediatric-specific infrastructure, protocols, and training.

Radical Relationships: Collaboration Across Borders

Strategic growth in pediatric healthcare requires bold partnerships—with universities, policymakers, health systems, and global organizations. As proud members of Childhood Cancer International (CCI), Cure 4 The Kids Foundation stands with advocates worldwide who are working to protect the childhood cancer language in this declaration.

CCI is a global network of member organizations, allies, and collaborative partners that has been instrumental in elevating childhood cancer on the global stage. Nevada’s participation in this international movement positions our state’s healthcare institutions for expanded collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership opportunities.

Innovation: Strengthening the Systems Behind the Care

Nevada has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure that directly supports children with cancer and rare diseases. We’re building registries, we’re modernizing genetics infrastructure through expanded newborn screening, and developing psychosocial and behavioral health pathways that recognize the whole-family impact of pediatric illness.

Global recognition fuels these initiatives by opening doors for new research opportunities, improving data integration across systems, and attracting workforce talent to Nevada. When childhood cancer is recognized as a global priority, the funding and partnership landscape shifts accordingly.

Workforce Development: Addressing Nevada’s Most Critical Barrier

The UN declaration specifically highlights the need for a pediatric-focused NCD workforce—precisely what Nevada is fighting to build.

Through initiatives like SB165—a bill designed to create a new licensed profession called the Behavioral Health and Wellness Practitioner that also establishes a regulatory framework for this practice—and academic partnerships, telehealth expansion, and the ongoing work of the Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council (NV-RDAC), we are actively addressing these gaps. Global recognition adds momentum and legitimacy to these efforts, helping attract federal attention and resources to Nevada’s workforce challenges.

Equity in Access: Ensuring No Child Is Left Behind

Recognition on the world stage supports the priorities most central to improving outcomes: early diagnosis, coordinated care systems, and equitable access to high-quality pediatric treatment regardless of geography or socioeconomic status.

For Nevada families—particularly those in rural areas or underserved communities—this matters enormously. When childhood cancer is prioritized globally, it strengthens the case for investments in telehealth infrastructure, transportation support, family navigation services, and the other wraparound resources that determine whether a child can actually access the care they need.

What Nevada Stands to Gain…Or Lose

If childhood cancer remains in the final UN declaration, Nevada gains:

  • Stronger alignment with federal and global health priorities, positioning the state favorably for grants, demonstration projects, and policy initiatives. 
  • Increased eligibility for research funding and international partnerships that could bring new clinical trials and treatment options to Nevada families. 
  • Reinforcement for Nevada’s legislative progress, including the work of NV-RDAC and initiatives advancing through the state legislature. 
  • Momentum for the 2026–2028 NV-RDAC State Plan, which will guide Nevada’s approach to rare diseases and childhood cancer for years to come. 
  • Validation for Nevada’s investments in early detection, data systems, and workforce development—demonstrating that our state is aligned with international best practices.

If the childhood cancer language is removed, this rare global opportunity disappears. The policy momentum we’ve built over the last decade becomes harder to advance. Nevada’s efforts to attract pediatric specialists, secure federal funding, and build sustainable infrastructure lose a critical source of support.

This is structural—the kind of foundational shift that determines what’s possible for the next generation of Nevada children facing cancer.

Now Nevadans Must Use Our Voice

Nevada has spent the last decade building the foundation for better pediatric cancer care. Now, as the world considers whether to formally recognize childhood cancer as a global health priority, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to stand with the international community.

As Founder of Cure 4 The Kids Foundation and Chair of NV-RDAC, I am urging our partners, policymakers, healthcare providers, and advocates across Nevada: 

This is the moment to pay attention. This is the moment to act.

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation proudly supports the global effort to retain childhood cancer in the final UN declaration. Because when the world recognizes children with cancer, it strengthens every system we are fighting to build—for Nevada, and for every child, everywhere.

About the Author: Annette Logan-Parker brings over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology to her role as Founder and Chief Advocacy & Innovation Officer at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children with cancer and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments for all families.