Revolutionary Support for Pediatric Cancer Trials
In a game-changing move, a remarkable investment of $2.5 million has been made to propel forward 18 innovative clinical trials aimed at combating pediatric cancer. This initiative, powered by the Peach Bowl LegACy Fund, is set to provide children and their families with new and improved treatment options, opening doors to hope and healing.
Overview of the Peach Bowl Contribution
This substantial contribution by Peach Bowl, Inc. comes as a second major infusion of capital, following an initial $20 million commitment that launched the Peach Bowl LegACy Fund back in 2019. Since its inception, the fund's mission has sharply focused on enhancing research and treatment opportunities and has expanded to include a total of 18 drug trials. These promising studies are currently operational in seven pediatric and adult facilities throughout the country, with 79 children currently enrolled to explore various cancer treatments.
Healthcare Professionals Voice Their Commitment
Gary Stokan, the CEO of Peach Bowl, Inc., emphasized the organization's dedication to giving back through this pivotal mission. "The Peach Bowl was created to give back, and we continue to follow that mission through our donation and commitment to fund the most promising clinical trials. Our partnership with Children's Healthcare aims to secure the resources necessary to advance treatment for childhood cancer. It’s essential work that brings hope to families."
Accelerating Treatment Through Innovative Research
The overarching goal of the Peach Bowl LegACy Fund is to facilitate the rapid testing of high-priority novel agents, devices, and treatment strategies. Such an initiative aims to accelerate the availability of groundbreaking treatments, ultimately leading to more choices for children in need. Specific funding is earmarked for developing drugs and advanced treatments, including cellular therapies with a high likelihood of success, as identified by physicians at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center.
Recent Developments in Cancer Trials
Recent developments have seen the completion of the fifth funding cycle, distributing the last $3.6 million from previous donations to initiate four additional trials. This brings the total number of ongoing clinical studies to 18. Here are some highlights of the newly funded trials:
- Dr. Thomas Cash is leading a promising trial focused on a tumor-suppressing drug for patients with solid tumors.
- Dr. Sarah Mitchell is set to launch the first immunotherapy trial tailored for young patients with osteosarcoma.
- Dr. Tobey MacDonald’s collaboration with the University of Georgia aims to leverage immunotherapy to improve survival rates for children with inoperable brain tumors.
- Dr. Michelle Schoettler is investigating a novel drug designed to prevent thrombotic microangiopathy post-blood and marrow transplants.
This extensive array of clinical trials exemplifies Peach Bowl Inc.'s unwavering commitment to advancing research in pediatric oncology through innovative funding.
Strategizing for Future Funding
Peach Bowl, Inc. is resolute in securing the future sustainability of the Peach Bowl LegACy Fund. The organization is actively working to identify new funding sources, including corporate donations that are projected to raise $200,000 associated with two Aflac Kickoff Games. In addition, proceeds from fan raffles during these games could contribute an extra $100,000 to the fund. This ensures tailored support for research, bringing hope and resources to the pediatric cancer community.
A Fond Memory Fueling Mission
The Peach Bowl LegACy Fund was thoughtfully established in honor of Anna Charles "AC" Hollis, a young patient who tragically succumbed to acute myeloid leukemia. Her father, Benji Hollis, serves as the VP of Sales for Peach Bowl, Inc. and emphasizes the intention behind the fund—to honor Anna's legacy by driving forward research and providing healing to others.
About Peach Bowl, Inc.
Peach Bowl, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization responsible for operating several significant events, including the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and the Aflac Kickoff Game. It is celebrated as the ninth-oldest bowl game nationally and as the most charitable bowl organization within college football, having contributed over $69.3 million to various charitable causes.
Peach Bowl Events Overview
Our Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl is a prominent fixture in college football, recognized among the New Year’s Six bowls, with significant events like the CFP Quarterfinal in 2025 and the CFP Semifinal in 2026. Over the past 56 years, this game alone has seen 3.3 million fan attendees and has generated a substantial economic impact of nearly $890 million for Atlanta.
Additionally, the Aflac Kickoff Game has revolutionized college football's opening weekend since 2008, hosting elite teams and attracting a hefty viewer base of 100.4 million, creating economic benefits amounting to approximately $565 million for Atlanta.
Furthermore, our annual Southern Company Peach Bowl Challenge charity golf tournament brings together prestigious coaches from the college football world, raising significant funds—about $9.7 million—to support various foundations and charities.
Lastly, The Dodd Trophy Presented by PNC Bank bears the name of legendary Georgia Tech coach Bobby Dodd, recognizing an FBS coach who embodies the triad of scholarship, leadership, and integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Peach Bowl LegACy Fund?
The Peach Bowl LegACy Fund is designed to fund significant advancements in pediatric cancer research and clinical trials.
How much funding has been provided to pediatric cancer trials?
A recent donation of $2.5 million has been made, contributing to a total of 18 ongoing trials.
Who are the key individuals behind the Peach Bowl initiatives?
Gary Stokan, as CEO of Peach Bowl, Inc., and various pioneering medical professionals lead the initiatives.
What historic impact has the Peach Bowl made in the community?
With over $69.3 million donated to charitable causes, the Peach Bowl has a long-standing commitment to enriching the community.
What events does Peach Bowl, Inc. operate?
Peach Bowl, Inc. operates notable events like the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and the Aflac Kickoff Game, among others.
