40. Crisis in Kids’ Cancer: What a 37% Research Funding Cut Really Means

In this timely episode, hosts Val and Dana break down what’s shifting in pediatric cancer research funding, and why it matters for kids right now. As a follow-up to an earlier episode about federal funding in 2026, we unpack details on the appalling federal funding cuts planned for pediatric cancer research.

In this episode we see:

• What a projected 37% cut to NCI’s budget could mean for pediatric research (fewer grants, center consolidations, and mid-stream project disruptions).
• Why “More than Four” still matters, and how 4% of NCI funds for pediatrics has always fallen short.
• The latest on the Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI), including the executive order matching $50M (bringing CCDI to $100M for the year) and how data + AI can accelerate precision options for kids.
• Potential impacts to programs like the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium, Pediatric Early Phase Clinical Trials Network, intramural high-risk research, and training awards for emerging scientists.
• On-the-ground advocacy updates from Capitol Hill, and the power of survivor voices leading the charge.
• Bright spots in Florida’s state investments in cancer research infrastructure, and why long-term, consistent funding is still essential.

If you'd like to read more:
Recap the facts from this conversation in our blog on federal funding cuts.
Review the NCI's report directly by clicking this link.

If this conversation moves you, please like, comment, and share to help us educate for change. Leaving a review helps more families find tangible hope.

Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/
Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/

Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/