We know that childhood cancer is more common than most people realize. Nearly two children per school will be diagnosed with cancer before they graduate. Every day, 47 families hear the words no parent ever wants to hear: "Your child has cancer." And for 1 in 4 of those children, the battle will be with brain cancer, the deadliest form of childhood cancer.

But here’s the thing—no one fights alone. Leading the charge in the fight for a cure are the elementary school kids who watch their friends battle cancer without getting better. The siblings who witness the treatments and heartbreak their families endure. These kids are proving that making a difference is easier than you think. We’ve created simple yet powerful ways for communities to come together, honor their loved ones, and take real action in the fight for a cure.

Caps for the Cure

Super Nova was a bright light at Nelson Elementary, always ready with a smile and a love for learning. When she was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer at just four years old, she never let it dim her spirit. Nova’s friends wanted to help, but what could a group of elementary school kids do? The answer: something small but powerful.

The school started hosting Caps for the Cure—students could wear their favorite hats to school in exchange for a small donation toward brain cancer research. It was fun, easy, and most importantly, it made a difference. Even after Nova earned her angel wings, the tradition continues with special additions like a lemonade stand. Her friends and school are still raising awareness and funds, making sure Nova’s dream of a cure never fades.

"There is another side to education aside from learning the core subjects. There is the education in humanity that Nelson Elementary supports and encourages. They lead by example to their students in what it means to have compassion, to take action, and to understand that they can make a difference no matter their age." – Bobbie Baker, Nova's Mom

Gold Out Games

For Bryce and his brothers, baseball wasn’t just a sport—it was their favorite way to spend an afternoon. When Bryce was diagnosed with DIPG, his local high school team welcomed him and his brother Tyler with open arms, making them honorary team members. Their love for the game and the support of those athletes gave Bryce strength in the hardest moments of his battle.

Now, Bryce’s memory lives on every time his brother Tyler steps onto the field. His high school team carries on Bryce’s legacy through Gold Out Games—special games dedicated to raising money for childhood brain cancer research. They even sell "Gold Game Treats" like cupcakes and cookies, turning every bite into a step toward a cure.

"Raising money for The Cure Starts Now is so important to our family. We couldn't save Bryce, but honoring him by raising funds to find a cure for other children gives us hope and a purpose as we navigate our grief and life without him." – The Caldwell Family

You Can Make a Difference, Too

These incredible kids and their communities prove that helping doesn’t have to be hard. Whether it’s hosting a Caps for the Cure day at your school, organizing a Gold Out Game with your local sports team, or simply spreading the word, every action gives our families hope and support.

This fight needs all of us. So what can you do today to help? Get involved, start a fundraiser, and show the world that The Cure Starts Now.

Start your fundraiser: thecurestartsnow.org/how-to-help/fundraise