DALLAS — A major fundraising effort in Dallas is set to double its impact as Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer partners with the V Foundation for Cancer Research to support pediatric cancer research through its upcoming anniversary gala.
Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) announced that the V Foundation will match $2 million raised during its 45th anniversary gala, scheduled for April 25, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. The match will bring total funding to $4 million dedicated to pediatric cancer research grants.
Organizers said additional funds raised at the event will support WOKC’s year-round programs, including Buddy Bags and the Warrior Family Program, which provide support and resources to children with cancer and their families, many of whom face financial hardship.
The partnership highlights WOKC’s long-standing approach of combining direct family support with investments in research aimed at improving outcomes for future patients. The gala will be held under the theme “Cancer Does NOT Define ME!”
“This $2 million matching opportunity is powerful not only because of its co-funding strength, but because of what $4 million represents in research discoveries for children and families facing pediatric cancer,” said Cindy Brinker Simmons, founder of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. “WOKC has always provided comfort and hope for the entire family through its multiple support programs while also relentlessly helping advance research that can lead to better treatments and brighter futures.”
Roger Ferguson, chief marketing officer at the V Foundation, said the collaboration reflects a shared goal of advancing meaningful research. “We’re proud to work alongside WOKC to fund the most promising scientists on the frontlines of pediatric cancer research,” he said.
The event will be chaired by Tatiana and Peter Cancro, founder of Jersey Mike’s Subs. Since 2010, the Cancro family and Jersey Mike’s have contributed more than $6 million to support WOKC’s mission.
The V Foundation, founded in 1993 by ESPN and late basketball coach Jim Valvano, funds cancer research across North America through a competitive grant process. The organization has awarded more than $107 million toward childhood cancer research through its Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund.
