Retrospect on the Pediatric Proton Foundation's First Year!

Dear Readers,

I would like to wish everyone that follows this blog a very Merry Christmas! We have been blessed this year with Jacob's continuing good scans and stability regarding his back issues. We have also been successful in gaining our public charity status and followed with a news release debut viewed by over 75,000 people.

Indeed, the Pediatric Proton Foundation has made great strides this year. We were at two national conferences. We have made many important connections in the pediatric oncology world. We have also posted opinions when proton articles have run and been featured on t.v. and radio. Our most recent airing on www.whatmatters.tv. Check us out!

Our board of directors represent some of the best talent in the pediatric radiation oncology world and will be key players in grant decision making. Thank you so much to Dr. Keole, Dr. Keppel, Dr. Porsche, Dr. Indelicato and Dr. Chang! You are truly the best!

Not bad for a first year of operation, but we still need your help! We are seeking skilled volunteers and always financial supporters that believe in what we are trying to do to help other parents and their kids. We have been there done that and support is critical to our success.

Our 2010 goal is to continue to raise money to offer financial grants to pediatric cancer patients to receive proton therapy. If you feel it in your heart and have a charitable giving plan, won't you please consider the Pediatric Proton Foundation? You can donate online at www.pediatricprotonfoundation.org.

Again, Happy Holidays!

Susan Ralston
Executive Director/Founder
Pediatric Proton Foundation

Little Jacob Big Hit in Windy City

We just got back from our first time exhibiting at ASTRO in Chicago last week. The number of attendees were almost 11,000 people from all over the world. Jacob and I spoke a few times at the IBA booth and then later at the IBA proton symposium. Hopefully, we helped put a face on the pediatric cancer issue and the advantages of proton treatment for pediatrics. Jacob said our motto very clearly each time, "Proton: because the smallest things matter most." Jacob sang his Hippo song and received a round of applause. He later gave an encore of "take me out to the ballgame" in honor of Harry Karry and the Chicago Cubs. More applause. A star is born!

The Pediatric Proton Foundation had its 1st Annual Meeting while in Chicago. The Board of Directors had a lively discussion on how we can make the most and best impact with the foundation. We especially believe we need to target pediatric oncologists. Several other great ideas were developed that will help grow the foundation. I am thankful to have such a professional and dedicated board.

You will notice a new gadget on our blog, called GoodSearch and GoodShop. This search engine is powered by Yahoo. If you load this toolbar, then each time you do a search on the internet, the foundation will earn a cent. If you shop through GoodShop, each vendor offers various donations based on your total purchase. This is a great way to give without ever writing a check. Just do your normal searches and watch the pennies turn into dollars. Pass the word to your family and friends, we appreciate any and all support!

PPF to hit the Windy City - Chicago Here We Come

The Pediatric Proton Foundation and 5 volunteers from age 4 to 80 will be attending the annual meeting of ASTRO (American Society of Theraputic Radiation Oncologist) in Chicago starting this Saturday, October 31st through the following Wednesday, November 4th. We are excited to have a chance to interact with the professional radiation oncology community and other vendors and professionals that work with proton therapy.

Our 4-year old son, Jacob, will also be in attendance during exhibit hall hours. He sings, he dances and he is a TWO YEAR Cancer Survivor in part due to the proton therapy he received as part of his protocol to beat Ewing's Sarcoma. Since Jacob's tumor was found on his thoratic spine, it was critical that we found a treatment that wouldn't harm his other growing organs and bones. We can't wait for others to meet him and see how grateful we are for having our son here and enjoying his life to the fullest.

We will also have our first annual meeting of the PPF while in Chicago. It will be the first time our board members will meet face to face so we are excited for the event.

Check out our newly revised website. We have enhanced it to include bigger buttons and easier navigation. Our website is www.pediatricprotonfoundation.org.