SWCRF Annual Kids Cancel Cancer Event Led By Teenage Advocates Raises $100,000 To Support Pediatric Cancer Research

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation held the 4th Annual Kids Cancel Cancer event on August 12, a unique fundraiser created by kids for kids, at The Clubhouse in East Hampton. This fun-filled evening featured delicious food, arcade games, miniature golf, exciting live and silent auctions, and more — all to raise funds for pediatric cancer research, which on the day was matched dollar for dollar by the Mark Foundation for Cancer Research.

Since its inception, Kids Cancel Cancer has empowered young people to become philanthropists and advocates for change. The 2025 event raised nearly $100,000 (not counting the one-for-one match by the Mark Foundation), directly supporting the work of four groundbreaking researchers focused on childhood cancers. In addition to a live auction, the event program included an inspiring speech by Ben Kahne, who was 21 and away in college when he was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. After successful treatment, Ben shared that he likely would not be alive without the scientific research that leads to life-saving advancements in cancer treatment.

Discussing the importance of this initiative, Dr. Samuel Waxman said, “I want to congratulate our incredible four co-chairs for organizing such a successful and inspiring event. Kids Cancel Cancer is proof that philanthropy—at any age—can drive real change. With federal funding for cancer research facing significant challenges, private support like this is more essential than ever to accelerate discoveries and bring hope to children and families affected by cancer.”

SWCRF Kids Cancel Cancer co-chairs were Mischa Abend, Abey Fuks, Ava Litman, and Hayley Silvers. Attendees included Lori Levine, Scott Levine, Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, William T. Sullivan, and Howie Schwartz.