A generic arrow icon.A twelve pointed star.A twelve pointed star.A generic calendar icon.A simple camera silhouette representing the ability to select an image.An icon representing a bag of cash money.An x shape representing the ability to delete an item.A gift box shaped icon representing the donations given and received.A pencil icon representing an editable state for an element.The facebook logo represented as the letter f.The facebook logo represented as the whole word facebook.A speech box shaped icon representing the messages sent and received.A four pointed arrow representing the ability to move items.An icon of a padlock.A plus sign silhouette representing the ability to add an item.The St. Baldrick's MarkA generic icon of a magnifying glass.A generic icon representing exiting a door or room.A simple trashcan silhouette representing the ability to delete an item.The Twitter bird icon.a generic human silhouette.
Peyton was 13 when he began his battle against rhabdomyosarcoma in January of 2013. This is a rare and aggressive form of cancer, but Peyton is brave and has never asked, “Why me?” His parents are so proud of his attitude and courage. He is loved by his family, friends, dogs Beau and Tripp, and bunny Max.
$94,024
Total Funds Raised
Since 2013

The Story Behind This Hero Fund

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

Highlights & Happenings

  • PFP Cancer Research Donation Form

    Give By Check

    To make a donation by check, complete a donation form and submit it with your check.
  • Filling The Funding Gap

    Filling the Funding Gap

    Learn about the funding gap that impacts childhood cancer research and how St. Baldrick’s is trying to fill it.
  • Your Support Means So Much

    These friends and family members helped us raise funds for childhood cancer research in honor of Peyton! See the 2013-2022 list.

Funding in Action

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.

Donate

Who's Involved

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.

Get Involved Your Own Way

  • Create An Event

    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.

  • Be a Shavee

    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.

  • Start a Fundraiser

    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!

This event is private

Private events are for people at the company, organization, school, etc., where the event is taking place. Please don't crash the party.

Do you want to continue to register for this event?

Yes
Private events are for people at the company, organization, school, etc., where the event is taking place.