The Ahmad Butler Foundation announced a major legislative breakthrough on Dec. 16 following the successful conclusion of The Long Walk for Pediatric Cancer, a 179-mile peaceful advocacy walk from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., calling attention to the need for increased pediatric cancer research funding.
At the culminating event in D.C., U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle publicly committed to personally introducing the Ahmad Butler Pediatric Cancer Hope for a Cure Act.
In recognition of the advocacy efforts led by Latanya Morrison and the Ahmad Butler Foundation, Boyle’s office presented ABF with a congressional proclamation, honoring the walk and the organization’s commitment to pediatric cancer awareness, research equity and legislative reform.
Rep. Rob Bresnahan attended the event and pledged his support, stating that he will work collaboratively with Boyle’s office to advance the Ahmad Butler Pediatric Cancer Hope for a Cure Act.
“This moment represents more than the end of a walk; it marks the beginning of real congressional action for children and families who have been overlooked for far too long,” said Morrison, executive director of the Ahmad Butler Foundation. “We are deeply grateful for Congressman Boyle’s leadership and Congressman Bresnahan’s commitment to standing with us.”
ABF and LaTanya Morrison also delivered a petition signed by more than 600 families across 21 states to Bresnahan, urging Congress to reject the proposed pediatric cancer research funding cuts and prioritize lifesaving investments for children fighting cancer.
The walk was organized in response to perceived longstanding disparities in pediatric cancer research funding and recent threats of additional cuts. Participants carried a petition calling on Congress to prioritize children with cancer and ensure equitable federal investment in lifesaving research.
