Valley Children’s Hospital, located in the Central Valley, has received a significant boost in its efforts to combat pediatric cancer. Dr. Ruetima Titapiwatanakun, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist at the hospital, has been awarded a $25,000 infrastructure grant by the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. This funding is intended to enhance access to pediatric cancer clinical trials and improve local research opportunities.
The Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Valley Children’s Hospital is notable for being the sole provider of pediatric oncology services between Los Angeles and the Bay Area. It ranks among the leading pediatric cancer facilities on the West Coast. Dr. Titapiwatanakun expressed gratitude for the grant, stating, “I am grateful for this grant, which expands Valley Children’s clinical research assistant infrastructure, supports equitable access to pediatric clinical research and advances evidence-based care.”
With this funding, the hospital aims to offer a wider range of therapeutic and non-therapeutic trials. Dr. Titapiwatanakun highlighted the importance of sustaining enrollment levels, which currently position Valley Children’s in the 80-90+ percentiles among institutions affiliated with the Children’s Oncology Group (COG), the largest organization dedicated to childhood cancer research globally.
Significance of the Grant
The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, established in 1999, is recognized as the leading charitable funder of childhood cancer research grants in the United States. Its efforts are supported by countless volunteers and donors who contribute to the mission of advancing pediatric cancer treatment. Kathleen Ruddy, CEO of the foundation, emphasized the impact of such grants, stating, “We are incredibly grateful to all of our supporters whose generosity and support makes these grants possible. Each of these infrastructure grants funds promising clinical trials that turn discoveries into real treatments, giving children safer, more effective options and hope for the future.”
Valley Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center consistently ranks in the top 5-8 percent internationally for patient enrollment in COG trials. This commitment to research not only provides children with access to potentially life-saving treatments but also contributes to the broader understanding of childhood cancers.
The infusion of $25,000 from the St. Baldrick’s Foundation will help to further solidify Valley Children’s position as a leader in pediatric oncology, ensuring that more children in the Central Valley have access to cutting-edge clinical trials and innovative care.
