For 15 years now, Hyundai Motor America has collaborated with its dealers to combat pediatric cancer through their nonprofit organization Hyundai Hope on Wheels.
At this week’s New York International Auto Show, Hope on Wheels will donate $14 million for pediatric cancer research to hospitals and institutions throughout the U.S. The total money raised since its inception in 1998 is more than $72 million.
Hyundai President John Krafcik kicked off the events by ringing the NASDAQ Stock Market closing bell. He was joined by Hope on Wheels’ youth ambassador CJ George, local Hyundai dealers and representatives from Columbia University Medical Center.
“Hyundai and its dealers remain committed to helping children in the fight against pediatric cancer,” said John Krafcik. “We are dedicated to providing crucial research dollars that will lead to finding cures and better treatment protocols for these precious children impacted by cancer. While cure rates approach 80% for some forms of pediatric cancer, far too many children and families are devastated by the disease. We are proud of our 15-year milestone for Hyundai Hope On Wheels, and remain keenly aware that there is much more work to be done.”
Hyundai Hope On Wheels began as a local initiative in 1998 by Hyundai and a group New England-area Hyundai dealers. It has since grown into a national nonprofit organization. The program primarily funds pediatric cancer research at Children’s Oncology Group member institutions across the U.S. Its other mission is to create public awareness about the importance of this cause.
“The field of medicine has seen progress in understanding the biology of pediatric cancer in recent years. Yet, cure rates remain at a plateau for the 12,000 or more children, who are newly diagnosed each year,” said Dr. Andrew L. Kung, Chief, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation at Columbia University Medical Center. “One of the greatest challenges to further advancements is the lack of adequate funding for research. Hyundai Hope On Wheels has been a major source of funding and a trusted resource in the fight to find a cure. Hyundai Hope On Wheels is truly making a difference in the lives of children and families impacted by cancer.”
