Pediatric Cancer Research to Save Lives

In the face of a devastating diagnosis that would break most spirits, 13-year-old Ava Decker chose to fight not just for herself, but for every child facing the same battle. When Ava was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer that primarily affects adolescents and teens, she discovered a shocking truth: cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in kids and teens in the U.S. yet the federal cancer research allocates a mere 4% to kids cancer research. Despite being confined to a wheelchair and living with constant pain, Ava channeled her determination into founding local grassroots nonprofit Glimmers Childhood Cancer Foundation, creating a legacy that continues to illuminate the path toward better treatments and cures for kids fighting cancer.

“Ava was shocked by the lack of progress and treatment options available,” recalls her mother, Vanessa Decker, who now serves as the foundation’s president. “Despite her terminal diagnosis, her wisdom and determination inspired everything we do today.”

The statistics are sobering. While other areas of cancer treatment have seen remarkable advancements, childhood cancers remain tragically underfunded and understudied. Osteosarcoma affects the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society, yet receives a fraction of the attention and resources needed to develop life-saving treatments.

Glimmers ensures that every donated dollar reaches researchers directly with the goal to discover less toxic and more effective treatments for kids fighting cancer. This commitment to transparency and effectiveness has enabled the organization to make significant strides in a short time. Following Ava’s passing in May 2024, the foundation raised almost half a million dollars funding critical research at top pediatric sarcoma hospitals, including UCLA, MD Anderson, and Memorial Sloan Kettering, while also supporting kids locally fighting cancer through psychosocial support programs.

“While political support for pediatric cancer research has diminished, the scientific community remains optimistic, especially with AI advancements,” Decker explains. The foundation’s strategic approach focuses on creating a “mass movement” for pediatric cancer awareness, engaging teenagers through youth boards and high school clubs to amplify their message and impact. Decker’s personal experience, dedication, and passion serve as a sharp tip of the spear. 

Beyond their core mission to fund research, Glimmers takes a multi-faceted approach to fighting childhood cancer. The organization provides student and political internships, advocates through public speaking and lobbying efforts, and offers tailored support for families, including specialized programs for siblings of cancer patients. The foundation’s growth has been remarkable, supported by a board of high-level professionals providing pro bono services and expanding its geographic reach far beyond its Santa Barbara roots. 

Despite the challenges of an underfunded medical system, Glimmers’ targeted donations provide crucial seed money that keeps labs operational and enables researchers to pursue larger grants.