What We Do
Sofia’s Hope, Inc. recognizes that in the fight against childhood cancer there have to be two simultaneous approaches. Research funding which will have a long term impact and the development of patient and family programs that support those going through the journey TODAY.
Sofia’s Hope, Inc. is committed to making a difference in the world of childhood cancer and specifically in the world of pediatric cardio-oncology. Sofia did not die from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma but rather from the long-term effects of the chemotherapeutic treatments she received as a child. The anthracycline medication Sofia received (used in almost 50% of current pediatric protocol(s) gave her over eight more years of life but it also damaged her heart beyond repair.
While research has led to the availability of a cardio-protective medication called dexrazoxane, its use will only become mandatory in NEW protocols in 2018. In the meantime, children diagnosed with cancer will continue to receive anthracyclines as they have been for more than four decades. And they will continue to save lives but for many children it will only be temporary. As such, THE NEED FOR RESEARCH IN THIS AREA IS ESSENTIAL!! Specifically, researchers need help in:
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Understanding how dexrazoxane works & how its use can be extended to all protocols;
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Determining proper dosage of dexrazoxane in protocols with high doses of anthracyclines;
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Developing new ways to diagnose potential cardiac issues as early as possible;
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Improving and developing new therapies to treat their heart failure when it occurs; and
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Further understanding why some children’s hearts are negatively affected while others not (genetic research).
To read more about our dedication to this very important research and our commitment, please click here.
The goal of our patient and family centered programs is to enhance the quality of life of children with cancer at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, the Miami Cancer Institute at Baptist Health, UM Sylvester/Holtz Children's Hospital, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital and The Salah Foundation Children's Hospital at Broward Health and Palm Beach Children's Hospital at St. Mary's. To give those caught up in the daily struggles of this disease a respite, to help them forget, if only for a little while, the journey upon which they have been thrust.
Our FREE programs include an awareness campaign to help children in schools understand childhood cancer and its impact on fellow students as well as an art and art therapy program, field trips to Zoo Miami, half-day horse camps, tutoring and scholarship programs and much more.
To get more information and details on all our programs, please click here.
Sofia's Hope would not be able to fund our annual research grant or continue our programs without the generosity of our donors. Please consider making a one-time or recurring donation by clicking the button below. Thank you for your support!!!
Testimonials
“Sofia’s Hope, Inc.’s commitment of $40,000 a year to support part of a cardio-oncology clinical research coordinator would truly accelerate our research in this area and would be exceptionally helpful in allowing us to continue this trail of discovery that hopefully will lead to better outcomes.” - Dr. Steven Lipshultz, MD, Conger Goodyear Professor and Chair of Pediatrics, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
This is going to be the best summer! I'm going to see all the animals in the zoo!" - Maria UM/Holtz patient
Sofia's Hope sponsorship of our weekly Family Fun Nights still exist 4 years later, taking place on the in-patient oncology unit. In collaboration with hospital staff, SH planned and hosted an evening of diversion through a deliciously catered meal for the families, a well-planned art activity with ClayWorld, and a welcoming environment. We are so grateful for all that they have done for our patients and families." - Jenny Oquendo, Supervisor of Children’s Experiences, Nicklaus Children's Hospital
The team at R2 Unified Technologies, lead by owner, Jamie Doherty, has been committed to Sofia's Hope since 2014.
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