Meet Anna
In 2019, after weeks of unexplained headaches, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, Jennifer took her 11-year-old daughter, Anna, to the emergency department in Erie, Pa. They didn’t know then that Anna, who was normally very athletic and high energy, was fighting a rare cancerous brain tumor known as medulloblastoma.
Anna was quickly taken via air ambulance from Erie to Pittsburgh where she received brain surgery just three days later. Her medical journey, which included multiple brain surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy treatments, many days driving between Erie and Pittsburgh, and countless hours with her family worrying, was physically and emotionally draining for the whole family.
UPMC Children’s is one of the leading sites in the United States for research and clinical studies focused on childhood neurologic cancers like medulloblastoma. “We were so fortunate to be able to have a top-notch children’s hospital only two hours away from us,” says Jennifer. “Lots of families travel across the country for care like this.”
Learn more about how philanthropy fuels pediatric cancer research
In May 2020, despite additional challenges including an infection caused by a lost tooth, Anna came home with a clean bill of health. Now a lively 13-year-old, Anna is focused on returning to her normal life while sharing her story to help other kids who are sick.
Kids like Anna get to have a chance at a bright future because of UPMC Children’s care and expertise, and donations from our supporters.
The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation Awards Grant to Further Cancer Research
Named for legendary golfer and Latrobe native Arnold Palmer and his wife, Winnie, the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families.
Sydney’s Story
Sydney was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Urea Cycle Disorder / Ornithine Transcarbamylase deficiency (UCD/OTC) at just one year old.
World-Class Palliative Care for Every Child and Family, at Every Stage of Life
The new Division of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care aims to build a future where there are no barriers to this life-changing care.
Lorenzo’s Journey to the Heart Institute at UPMC Children’s
Within days of his birth, a team of skilled surgeons at UPMC Children’s performed open heart surgery on Lorenzo.
Children’s Trust Grants $100,000 for Startup Pediatric Research
Each spring, a group of hand-selected researchers pitch next generation, budding research concepts to members of the Children’s Trust for a chance at winning seed funding to help kickstart their research.
Welcoming New Leadership on the Board of Trustees
Learn more about Vanessa and what inspires her to serve UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh so proudly, in her own words.
Philanthropy Supports Individualized Behavioral Health Care
Throughout our hospital, there are many licensed psychologists dedicated to supporting specific service lines.
2023 Walk for Children’s: Celebrating Our First $1 Million Walk
Walk for Children’s, presented by UPMC and UPMC Health Plan, reached new heights this year, gathering 4,157 walkers, 255 teams, and 54 sponsors.