Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis participated in a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot event to raise awareness about pediatric cancer and honor Griffin Anderson, a two-year-old from Jacksonville currently battling Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Griffin’s Journey
Griffin Anderson’s story began on April 29, when he was hospitalized after falling from a bunk bed. Initially suspected to have a clavicle fracture, X-rays revealed a mass on his humerus, later diagnosed as Ewing’s sarcoma. This rare cancer affects only 200 to 250 individuals in the U.S. annually, predominantly teenagers and young adults.
Griffin has undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy and blood transfusions. Ultimately, doctors determined that amputation of his arm was necessary to save his life.
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Despite these challenges, Griffin has shown remarkable resilience, inspiring everyone around him with his strength and courage.
“The battle against cancer is ongoing, and we will not stop until it’s defeated,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “We are proud to continue promoting advanced health care research and supporting Floridians like Griffin as they continue their fight to defeat this awful disease.”
Since 2022, Florida has ramped up its efforts to combat cancer through initiatives like Florida Cancer Connect, a website offering resources and support for Floridians affected by cancer. Key features include:
- Information on cancer research and prevention programs.
- Tools to locate specialized healthcare providers.
- Guidance on navigating cancer-related insurance coverage.
- Caregiver support resources.
- Inspirational survivor stories from Floridians.
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Additionally, the Cancer Connect Collaborative, established under Governor Ron DeSantis’s leadership, focuses on revolutionizing Florida’s approach to cancer treatment and prevention. Its five objectives are:
- Data Accessibility: Enhancing the availability and accessibility of cancer data for timely analysis and treatment.
- Best Practices: Encouraging the sharing of effective treatment protocols across public and private sectors to ensure the best care for all patients.
- Transparency: Promoting open access to information about cancer prevention and treatment.
- Innovation: Cutting through bureaucratic red tape to accelerate the application of new technologies in cancer care.
- Funding: Bolstering cancer research with initiatives like the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund.
This year, Florida allocated over $232 million to cancer research, including:
- $60 million for the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, a 200% increase in funding.
- $127.5 million for the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program.
As Florida continues to lead in cancer research and treatment innovation, events like today’s Turkey Trot highlight the importance of community support and awareness in the fight against this devastating disease.
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