Hyundai Hope On Wheels came to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford last week to award two physician-scientists with grants to fuel their research into new pediatric cancer treatments.
Tanja Gruber, MD, PhD, the Chambers Family Endowed Professor for Pediatric Cancer and chief of Pediatric Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine and director of the Bass Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, received a $400,000 Hyundai Hope Scholar Grant, and Crystal Wang, MD, a pediatric Hematology-Oncology fellow, received a $250,000 Hyundai Young Investigator Grant.
Eleven-year-old Zoe, who was diagnosed with leukemia three years ago, was on-hand to share her story and celebrate Wang, who was unable to attend the event. “She was my doctor and also my friend. I’m super proud of her for getting this far,” Zoe said.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has long been a significant supporter of cancer research at Packard Children’s Hospital. The primary funding for Hyundai Hope On Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 830 U.S. dealers.
The event ended with a Handprint Ceremony, when Zoe, her doctors, and Hyundai partners dipped their hands in paint and placed them on a Hyundai vehicle, symbolizing the collective fight against pediatric cancer and hope for a cure.
“When people like you give money,” Zoe told the Hyundai Hope On Wheels audience, “it helps cancer researchers, which helps cancer patients. I appreciate all of you for helping, not just me, but all kids with cancer.”
September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. There’s still time to make a difference for patients like Zoe and their families. Donate now to support the extraordinary care and research taking place at Packard Children’s Hospital.
