
Our son, Peyton, was 13 when he was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare cancer of the soft tissue or muscle, in January of 2013.
In the weeks following his diagnosis our family spent significant time researching his cancer and childhood cancers in general. We learned that childhood cancer is the number one disease killer of children in the US, but were shocked and dismayed to find out that less than 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s budget is allocated to children's cancer research. Unlike adult cancer research, the pharmaceutical industry is not a source of funding for pediatric cancer research.
A couple of months into this journey, we felt compelled to take action. After some investigating, we decided to partner with St. Baldrick's Foundation to raise money for children's cancer research. Our intent is to make difference for families facing rhabdomyosarcoma in the future.
We are incredibly proud of Peyton. He is a talented guitar player, and even throughout his chemo, he continued to put in long hours with his schoolwork. His strength and ability to fight through grueling chemotherapy and radiation has amazed his family, friends and treatment team.
Peyton’s sister, brother, many friends, two dogs and his bunny Max give him constant love and support, and we appreciate all our friends and family have done for us through this fight that no one should have to fight.
Please join us in honoring Peyton’s fighting spirit, by giving to support research that will bring about cures and less toxic treatments. Thank you for giving hope to infants, children and teens fighting childhood cancers, and thank you to all who are Praying For Peyton (PFP!).
Thank you,
Jim and Katie Arens
Donations made to the PFP Cancer Research Fund go directly to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation to fund lifesaving childhood cancer research around the world. The Foundation is guided by a Scientific Advisory Committee, comprised of leading experts in the childhood cancer community, to ensure that every dollar makes the greatest impact for kids with cancer.
These people make us smile - they’re the doers and money-raisers on behalf of the PFP Cancer Research Fund. They’re shaving their heads, hosting events, starting fundraisers and more to make childhood cancer research possible.
Start your own St. Baldrick’s head-shaving event to support our Hero Fund! A dedicated staff member will guide you every step of the way—and you’ll have fun doing something great for kids with cancer.
Register to shave your head and support our Hero Fund at any St. Baldrick’s event worldwide! No event nearby? Go virtual and shave anytime, anywhere.
Not into head-shaving? No problem! Start a fundraiser for our Hero Fund doing something you love—bike a marathon, host a bake sale, anything goes!
Need help? Email us at Funds@StBaldricks.org