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 $14M Raised to Support Our Mission
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, allocating 10% of our focus 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.
“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.
Igniting a New Chapter
Now, ISF is entering an exciting new chapter of impact with the launch of its expansion throughout the Carolinas. Ignited by ISF, the TORCH Initiative is a groundbreaking effort that marks a historic milestone in pediatric cancer research as we expand our impact from 130 children at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte to thousands of children across the Carolinas.
Through collaboration with top-tier doctors deeply invested in combating rare pediatric cancers, this initiative aims to financially support up to 20 groundbreaking projects annually and unite every children’s hospital around one mission: to provide Transformational Outcomes for Rare Cancer Heroes.
