Children’s Cancer Research Fund Presents 2009 Butterfly Awards
Children’s Cancer Research Fund® honored five individuals and organizations with its prestigious Butterfly Award during its 2009 Partnership Summit, held on October 8. The award recognizes ongoing commitment and dedication to the fight against childhood cancer.
The butterfly is Children’s Cancer Cancer Research Fund’s organizational symbol and represents the changes a child encounters while undergoing cancer treatment. From the cocoon of treatment and isolation, a child emerges—healthy and ready to take flight.
“We are pleased to recognize those who have dedicated so much time and energy to our cause,” says John Hallberg, Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Cancer Research Fund. “This is our opportunity to show our appreciation for all they have contributed.”
Medical Category—recognizes members of the medical community at the University of Minnesota Amplatz Children’s Hospital and Masonic Cancer Center who have shown exceptional levels of service—was awarded to Dr. Jakub Tolar, Ph.D.
Dr. Tolar has made pivotal discoveries that will influence the design of future stem cell-based therapeutic trials. His work is generating data to genetically correct stem cell populations, which have many potential clinical applications.
Dr. Tolar led a study that discovered a viable treatment for epidermolysis bullosa, a pre-cursor to skin cancer. He’s helping the University of Minnesota set the standard for treatment of this devastating disease.
When asked why he’s committed to research for childhood cancer, Dr. Tolar said, “I have been driven to childhood cancer by the high price we pay when we fail, and by the intense focus needed to limit the risk of such failure.”
Fundraising Partners/Community Category—recognizes members of the community who have contributed significantly to Children’s Cancer Research Fund through an event, program or promotion— was awarded to The Bohannon Group Foundation.
The Bohannon Group Foundation has contributed greatly to Children’s Cancer Research Fund through volunteerism, awareness-building and financial support that has reached more than $100,000.
Corporate Category—acknowledges organizations/companies that have generously supported Children’s Cancer Research Fund through signature event sponsorships and financial and/or in-kind donations —was awarded to C.H. Robinson.
C.H. Robinson has given more than $50,000 in financial support to Children’s Cancer Research Fund. The company has also demonstrated their commitment to the health of children by joining Community Health Charities, a workplace giving campaign that support health-related causes.
Volunteer Category—acknowledges members of the community who have given significant time and/or services to Children’s Cancer Research Fund through event or program participation, public speaking or publicity, administrative duties, and other such efforts— was awarded to Cari Erickson.
Ms. Erickson has had a great impact on the organization through leading fundraising efforts like Dawn of a Dream, Macy’s Glamorama and the Capital Campaign and by serving on the Board of Directors.
Care Partners Category—recognizes the Care Partners volunteer who has given a significant number of service hours to patients and their families—was awarded to Kay Johnson.
Kay Johnson has given more than 2,000 hours of her time to the Care Partners program that provides non-medical support to patients and families receiving life-saving treatments at the University of Minnesota. She has been a true lifeline to these families as they spend months far away from home.