As 2009 comes to a close, I would like to recognize our advocates, volunteers and donors who have supported our efforts over the past year to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer research. Thank you for your dedication and commitment.

As President and CEO of CureSearch, I am professionally and personally committed to make 2010 a banner year for our organization.  I pledge to you that we will do everything in our power to get closer to the day when each child diagnosed with cancer is guaranteed a cure.

Momentum is building within both the childhood cancer community and our dedicated staff at CureSearch. Our outreach to major donors and corporate sponsors will escalate as we recognize that we cannot rely on federal funding alone to support life-saving research. We will continue to strive to be recognized as the pre-eminent childhood cancer organization, exclusively supporting the life-saving research of Children’s Oncology Group. With the help of our volunteers, we are looking to double the number of CureSearch Walks around the country this year.

We are strengthening our team in the Bethesda office and there is renewed spirit and energy as we see the potential that lies ahead.

I have just had the privilege of attending the Shark Shootout benefiting CureSearch. This event, hosted by Greg Norman, has been raising funds and awareness  for childhood cancer research for 21 years

Each year, a family touched by childhood cancer is invited for tournament week, to share their personal story in front of the PGA players and the media.  Receiving a standing ovation, childhood cancer survivor Sebastian Gillen told his story of courage and triumph. Sebastian spoke for all children who have been diagnosed with cancer and for all whose memory we hold in our hearts. Greg Norman immediately requested a copy of his speech.  Sebastian’s story then aired on NBC nation-wide.

During this busy holiday season, I invite you to take a few minutes to watch Sebastian’s speech.  Sebastian is just one of our survivors.  He is the proof that only research cures childhood cancer.   With your help, there can be more childhood cancer survivors – just like Sebastian.

On behalf of CureSearch, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a holiday season of peace, hope and health.

The Shark Shootout once again provided CureSearch with a national stage to increase both awareness and funding for childhood cancer. CureSearch signs, wristbands, gold ribbons and videos were on clear display throughout the tournament as it aired on NBC Saturday and Sunday.

Full recap