Aidan’s Story: The Power of Research

More than a decade ago, we shared Aidan’s story with you. Since then, we’ve kept you updated on his journey. For those who may not know Aidan, his battle with neuroblastoma began just before his fifth birthday. Thanks to groundbreaking research and generous supporters, he has had options that have allowed him to fight back. Today, Aidan stands as a four-time cancer survivor.

But the fight hasn’t been easy. Last summer, as he was preparing for college, he relapsed once again, an all-too-common reality for children facing this type of cancer. Instead of moving into a dorm and starting his freshman year, he had to return to the front lines of treatment, putting his college plan on hold for the time being. 

Timing is Everything

Today, Aidan is showing no signs of cancer. Even more, he benefited from a breakthrough we helped make possible — a blood test developed by Dr. Yael Mossé at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). This test, a specialized “liquid biopsy”, can track genetic changes in pediatric cancers with greater sensitivity than traditional scans. It’s a game-changer, giving doctors the ability to detect a relapse earlier and act faster. 

For Aidan, this advancement couldn’t have come at a more critical time. He recently received devastating news: his cancer is more likely to return than not. But thanks to the liquid biopsy, any potential relapse can be caught before tumors have a chance to grow, giving him the best possible chance to fight back. Now cancer-free, Aidan is thriving in his freshman year of college, where he serves as a statistician for the men’s basketball team.

This breakthrough means more than just early detection. It means fewer invasive procedures, less exposure to radiation, and more time for Aidan to live his life — like experiencing the joys and milestones of being a college freshman.

YOU helped make this happen. 

Your efforts, whether through bake sales, community events, or other ways you choose to get involved are making moments like this possible. Every dollar raised funds cutting-edge research that leads to life-saving breakthroughs. Together, we’re building a future where kids like Aidan have safer and more effective treatment options.

To help fund more breakthroughs like this one, donate here.