Our Mission

A Vision for Change

The Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF) envisions changing the landscape of rare pediatric cancer treatment from diagnosis to survivorship worldwide.

Mission Statement

Our mission is dedicated to improving rare pediatric cancer treatment options to provide transformational care for kids with cancer, aiming to increase survival rates worldwide.

Our Impact

Since 2007, ISF has contributed millions to expand research and treatment and support affected families. 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. In 2020, the Isabella Santos Rare & Solid Tumor Program launched with Levine Cancer Institute, aspiring to be a global hub for children with solid tumors and rare cancers.

Over $16M Raised to Support Our Mission

  • Hired Top Research Oncologists

  • Doubled the Solid Tumor Patient Volume

  • Treated Patients Traveling Worldwide from 24+ Countries

  • Opened Pediatric Cancer Research Lab at Levine’s Children’s Hospital

  • Numerous Clinical Trials + Rare Cancer Studies Funded

  • The Isabella Santos Foundation Rare & Solid Tumor Program Opened in July 2020

Live My Dreams Program

Bringing their wishes to life.

The cost of childhood cancer extends far beyond hospital stays and chemotherapy.

Powered by ISF, the Live My Dreams giving program is at the heart of our mission, providing critical resources to support the various challenges faced by families affected by cancer.

Through our valued partnerships with other nonprofits, we aim to contribute to the holistic well-being of these families.

Donations to the Live My Dreams giving program will help fund a myriad of family needs beyond cancer treatment.

These may include counseling services, dental care, hearing aids, scholarships and engaging activities.

ISF remains committed to supporting organizations that were instrumental in fulfilling many of Isabella’s dreams.

Over the course of our journey, ISF has proudly donated $718,625 to support families in a practical and personal way.

ISF Scholarship Program

Established in 2017, the ISF Scholarship Program was created to further our commitment to fighting rare childhood cancer. Each year, we award scholarships to high school seniors and college students who are currently facing a cancer diagnosis or have made a meaningful impact on our mission. Applications are due by May 1.

Learn more about the application process.

Yvonne Grau Caregiver of the Year Award

She was more than a caretaker—Yvonne Grau was family. A second mother to Isabella. A source of strength, compassion and unwavering care during the hardest days of Isabella’s cancer journey. Her recent passing leaves a void, but her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

In honor of Yvonne and others like her, the Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF) is proud to launch the Caregiver of the Year Awards Program—a new initiative to celebrate the incredible individuals who go above and beyond for the children and families facing a rare cancer diagnosis.

Do you know someone like Yvonne—someone who has made an unforgettable impact in the life of a local family facing a rare pediatric cancer diagnosis?

We are now accepting nominations through August 1 for outstanding individuals who have provided care, comfort and compassion to families receiving treatment at Novant Health or Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC. One recipient from each hospital will be honored on September 15, in celebration of Yvonne’s birthday and the legacy of care she embodied.

This is our way of saying thank you to the caregivers who show up—day after day—with love, grace and tireless dedication. Read Erin’s heartfelt blog in honor of Yvonne.

Caretaker of the Year Award Nomination

Nominate a staff member at Novant Health or Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital who has made an unforgettable impact in rare pediatric cancer care. Please email Karen Murphy with the information below:

Your Name (First and Last)

Your Email Address:

Name of the Caretaker You’re Nominating (First and Last)

Their Job Title / Role (e.g., Nurse, Child Life Specialist, Social Worker, etc.)

Where Do They Work?

  • Novant Health
  • Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital

How long have they been in this role (if known)

Why are you nominating this individual? Please share how this caretaker has gone above and beyond to care for pediatric oncology patients and their families. Personal stories, specific examples and impact are encouraged. (Recommended 150–300 words)

 

“Because of the Isabella Santos Foundation, we have HOPE. I can’t express how thankful we are for the opportunities ISF is providing for us and for all they are doing and have done to provide better treatment options for my baby. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for donating and for being the reason I get to spend another day with my daughter.”

Michala R.

Mother of Kylie, Neuroblastoma Warrior

“In 2019, our world was turned upside down. During Merritt’s cancer journey ISF has always been there for us, whether it was something we need, a message just to say “we are praying for you” or “just checking on y’all”, Rachel being in clinic one day with us and jumped right in to help us clean up after Merritt got sick and even specifically funding rhabdomyosarcoma research in honor of Merritt. ISF has had our backs.”

Aaron P.

Father of Merritt, Rhabdomyosarcoma Warrior

Your support makes these initiatives possible, bringing hope and light to families facing the darkest of days. 

Join us in our mission to help children with cancer live their dreams.

Live My Dreams Collaborators

ISF has also awarded educational scholarships to several local high school students, aiding them in pursuing their dreams.