Community First: Benjamin Gilkey Fund
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. In this edition of Community First, we’d like to highlight the work being done in memory of Michael’s youngest son Benjamin, who passed away last year from complications of leukemia.
The Benjamin Gilkey Fund for Innovative Pediatric Cancer Research is a restricted fund within the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation family. It exists to fuel the passions of Benjamin’s physicians and other investigative researchers within the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute. Studies supported by the Fund will make new options available to improve and prolong the lives of children like Benjamin, who are unique, brave, and unbelievably strong.
The Gilkey family invests in pediatric cancer research, both personally and professionally. There are a few events coming up in September that we’re proud to support, and to share with you.
Rays Up for Research: The Tampa Bay Rays continue to partner with Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in several ways. On September 8th, they will host the second annual “Rays Up for Research” event, honoring Benjamin Gilkey at their Saturday evening game against the Orioles. A portion of ticket sales will benefit The Benjamin Gilkey Fund for Innovative Pediatric Cancer Research. Tickets are available here.
Gold Together Tampa Bay Rowdies Match: The Tampa Bay Rowdies raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer at every home game in September. This year, in partnership with #GoldTogether, they have chosen to benefit The Benjamin Gilkey Fund for Innovative Pediatric Cancer Research at their September 15th game. Tickets are available here.
Boards for Bravery: On September 23rd, learn how to build the perfect charcuterie board while supporting pediatric cancer research at a brand new gathering on the Sarasota social calendar: Boards for Bravery, A Charity Charcuterie Event. Admission includes wine and appetizers, a unique handcrafted board to take home, pairing education from local experts, and the chance to create your unique palette of specially selected fine meats, cheeses, and delicious accoutrements, provided by local artisans. All proceeds benefit The Benjamin Gilkey Fund for Innovative Pediatric Cancer Research. Tickets are available here.
The first study supported by The Benjamin Gilkey Fund will combine two different therapies, for the first time, in leukemia patients undergoing blood or marrow transplantation, with the hope and expectation that this combination will reduce the risk of relapse. We look forward to continuing to keep you informed about the progress of the research made possible by The Benjamin Gilkey Fund, and thank you sincerely to those of our friends, families, and clients who have supported this work.
