Childhood Cancer Research Grant Given in Honor of Georgetown Child

Georgetown, Ind. – The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants, is proud to announce the Hope from Harper St. Baldrick’s Hero Fund, created in honor of Harper Wehneman from Georgetown, Ind., will support lifesaving childhood cancer research at the University of Michigan.

Named the “Hope from Harper St. Baldrick’s Fellow,” Dr. Daniel Peltier at the University of Michigan was awarded $195,000 to support his research studying the effects that ncRNA has on bone marrow transplant recipients. Bone marrow transplantation is often complicated by severe and often fatal side effects. Both the beneficial anti-cancer effects and harmful side effects of bone marrow transplantation are due in part to the new immune system that the patient receives. Dr. Peltier is looking to understand how a component of a new immune system is controlled by a recently identified class of genes called non-coding RNA’s (ncRNA).

“We are so proud to be able to support Dr. Peltier’s groundbreaking research,” said Harper’s father, Brian Wehneman. “Harper brought hope and joy into the lives of countless people she encountered in her short time with us, despite her battle against childhood cancer, and we are thrilled to be able to honor her memory by continuing research that will someday result in cures.”

Despite being diagnosed at 7 years old with Wilms tumor, her fiery spirit never ceased. Harper passed away in December 2014, but throughout her battle she inspired those around her and continues to do so today. The Hope from Harper Hero Fund was created to honor Harper’s memory and continue her legacy to inspire joy and bring hope to kids fighting cancer.

Since 2015, the Hope from Harper St. Baldrick’s Hero Fund has raised more than $173,000 to support the most promising childhood cancer research. St. Baldrick’s Hero Funds are an ongoing way for friends, family members and groups to donate or raise funds to honor a loved one. To learn more about the program visit the St. Baldrick’s Hero Fund page.

About St. Baldrick’s Foundation
As the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation is leading the charge to take childhood back from cancer. St. Baldrick’s funds some of the most brilliant childhood cancer research experts who are working to find cures and better treatments for all childhood cancers. Kids need treatments as unique as they are – and that starts with funding research just for them. Join us at StBaldricks.org to help support the best childhood cancer research, no matter where it takes place.

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