MILWAUKEE – Wisconsin families who have children with cancer have access to some of the best medical care in the country. A big reason for that is the leadership and advocacy provided by the MACC Fund, Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer, founded 40 years ago.

On Friday, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined leaders from Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) and other elected officials to recognize the advancements made in fighting childhood cancer and what is next in research and clinical care.

“I was honored to be a part of the MACC Fund and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin roundtable,” Johnson said. “As a Wisconsin father of three, I have long admired the MACC Fund and the incredible work of Children’s Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin. A team at Children’s Hospital saved my daughter's life 32 years ago — an everyday task for this team of dedicated professionals -- but a medical miracle for my family.  It's a miracle we will always be grateful for.

“Now, as a U.S. senator, I have the chance to highlight and review the progress, challenges and opportunities in pediatric cancer research. This roundtable was a natural extension of that. Children deserve the best chance we can give them. I am thankful to have a part in supporting families struggling with the unfathomable burden of childhood cancer and in supporting research that brings hope.”

Sen. Johnson, Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, Wisconsin state Rep. Peter Barca and Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele provided short reflections on the MACC Fund’s impact on the community.

Opening remarks were made by Peggy Troy, president and CEO of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and John R. Raymond, MD, president and CEO of MCW. The program was emceed by Kevin Steiner, president and CEO of West Bend Mutual Insurance and board vice chair of the MACC Fund.

“Children’s Hospital is so fortunate to have the MACC Fund and MCW as partners in the fight against pediatric cancer and blood disorders,” said Troy. “The MACC Fund has inspired hope for Wisconsin children, families and health care providers for four decades. This has had a tremendous impact on the level of care and innovation Children’s has been able to provide.”

“This community has a vision, thanks to the MACC Fund, to fight pediatric cancer. That vision has meant that some of the most consequential cancer research has been undertaken right here at MCW and Children’s,” said Dr. Raymond. “I am excited about the potential the future holds as together we take the next great steps in the fight against pediatric cancer.”