"We're just doing good because I feel we should," said Erin Santos-Primis, Executive Director and Founder of the Isabella Santos Foundation. The Charlotte-based nonprofit is at the forefront of funding research for rare pediatric cancer and providing support to children and families affected by the disease.

Santos-Primis' established ISF in 2007 in memory of her daughter, Isabella, who fought neuroblastoma. To help other families, ISF recently announced the public launch of the TORCH Initiative — an effort accelerating clinical trials and survivor programs for rare pediatric cancer heroes at children's hospitals across North and South Carolina.

Editor's note: The TORCH Initiative stands for Transformational Outcomes for Rare Cancer Heroes.

Partnering with Atrium Health and Levine Children’s Hospital, ISF funded clinical trials, developmental therapeutics and a top-tier MIBG therapy suite—one of 20 nationwide. | Photo via Isabella Santos Foundation

With a $2 million annual funding goal, TORCH will create the opportunity to partner with every children's hospital in the Carolinas. The initiative will make it possible for hospitals to treat 10x as many patients and collaborate with cutting edge medical professionals to make lasting change.

“While we will continue to support impactful programs in Charlotte, we believe our reach can be greater by serving thousands of children across the Carolinas battling rare cancers,” said Santos-Primis.

Since 2007, ISF has raised over $14 million to expand research and treatment and support affected families. | Photo via Isabella Santos Foundation

Ways to donate:
Looking to contribute to ISF? The 2nd Annual ISF Golf for a Cure will be held at Firethorne Country Club in Marvin, North Carolina on Monday, June 27. Proceeds will go towards Levine's Children's Hospital for pediatric cancer research.

ISF is also hosting events like a brunch club, blood drives, and more.