Dear Friends,

We are thrilled to announce the 45th anniversary of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) and our spectacular celebratory gala to be held at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas on Saturday, April 25, 2026! The gala’s victorious theme is ”Cancer Does NOT Define ME!” We hope you can join us!

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Truly, forty-five years covers so much ground. What started as a small but enthusiastic movement in 1980 has grown into a non-profit organization that has had significant impact in the pediatric cancer space. WOKC funds local and national innovative pediatric cancer research projects and offers multiple year-round support programs to courageous young cancer patients (Warriors) and their resilient families. Most importantly, WOKC has provided comfort and hope to these amazing and inspirational heroes and their families. Beginning with a signature WOKC Buddy Bag delivered when a child is admitted to a partner hospital for an overnight stay and throughout its year-round Warrior Family Program, WOKC offers its young patients and families “medicine for their souls” that helps them move forward with confidence and perseverance. They know they have a team walking alongside them that loves them well.

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We are grateful beyond measure for WOKC’s Board of Directors, Founder’s Forum, gala Host Committee, gala committee, steadfast donors and sponsors, volunteers, and the many friends who share their passion for the mission of WOKC. We are deeply humbled, blessed, and encouraged by such faithfulness that has allowed WOKC to be relentless and effective in helping unlock the mysteries of pediatric cancer through funding promising research projects while serving these brave kids and their families.

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Please turn the pages to enjoy the breadth and depth of details about WOKC and this high-energy and fun gala celebration. A focus on research, Buddy Bags, and WOKC Warriors will play an integral role throughout the entire evening! The evening will feature a nationally recognized celebrity emcee, a private performance by a popular entertainer, a variety of savory and delectable culinary selections, a stunning Live Auction, and will end with a Dessert and Dance Party featuring the fabulous Emerald City Band!! We are profoundly grateful that the gala’s Honorary Chairs, Tatiana and Peter Cancro, founder of Jersey Mike’s Subs, have made a gracious gift to fully cover the expenses of the gala evening. Their kind generosity allows all other donations, underwriting, and sponsor dollars to directly fund WOKC’s mission and novel research! We are excited that the V Foundation for Cancer Research has committed to match $2 million of WOKC gala proceeds to co-fund select cutting-edge pediatric cancer research!

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Please join us for this celebratory anniversary gala! It’s all for heroic young Warriors courageously battling and beating cancer. What an honor to serve them!

 

With heartfelt gratitude and joy,

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Cindy Brinker Simmons

Gala Co-Chair

 

 

Karee H. Sampson

Gala Co-Chair

 

Email gala@wokc.org with questions | wokc.org/gala