To honor Childhood Cancer and Sickle Cell Awareness Month, the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Institute at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital received a $100,000 Impact Grant from Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Hyundai Motor America’s nonprofit organization. This impact grant will support research initiatives and comprehensive care programs that improve outcomes and quality of life for children battling cancer and sickle cell disease.
This marks the third consecutive year Hyundai Hope on Wheels has awarded the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Institute a $100,000 Impact Grant, bringing the hospital’s total grant funding to $300,000 since 2023. This year’s grant will support the Adolescent & Young Adult Survivorship Program, a vital initiative designed to help young patients transition from active treatment to survivorship.
“We know the journey doesn’t end when treatment does,” said Jacqueline Casillas, M.D., medical director, Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Institute, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “This grant will make a real difference by enhancing our Adolescent & Young Adult Survivorship Program, which provides personalized care plans, psychosocial support, and survivorship education tailored to the needs of adolescent and young adult patients.”
The program addresses a critical gap in care for young people navigating school, work, relationships, and independence while managing the long-term effects of cancer and its treatment. A dedicated team of oncologists, psychologists, social workers, and nurse navigators helps patients manage late effects, monitor for recurrence, and address fertility, mental health, and lifestyle concerns. Peer support and community resources are also integrated to help patients thrive beyond cancer.
“Adolescent & Young Adult patients often fall between the cracks of pediatric and adult oncology programs,” added Dr. Casillas. “Our program ensures they receive comprehensive, age-appropriate support to live full, healthy lives after treatment.”
To celebrate the grant, Hyundai Hope on Wheels hosted its signature Handprint Ceremony, where patients at the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Institute placed colorful handprints on a new Hyundai vehicle. The car will travel across the country, sharing their stories of resilience and hope.
“We’re deeply grateful for Hyundai’s continued partnership,” said Dinarte Viveiros, vice president and chief nursing officer, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “Their generosity honors our patients and their families while strengthening our mission to deliver compassionate, high-quality care.”
The Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Institute is one of only 10 children’s hospitals in the nation with full accreditation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. The Institute provides comprehensive care to children with cancer, sickle cell disease, and other serious blood disorders.
