Team BWS – Alex’s Million Mile

Beckwith-Wiedemann Spectrum (BWS) is a rare genetic condition that affects growth and development in children. For some types of BWS, up to 25% of children will develop cancer, most commonly liver and kidney tumors.

Families affected by BWS live with the uncertainty of tumor screenings, medical appointments, and the hope that research will continue to improve treatments and outcomes. That’s why Team BWS is proud to participate in Alex’s Million Mile, helping move us closer to better treatments and ultimately cures for children with cancer.

Thank you for supporting this important cause.

Funds raised by Team BWS help support:

Research Projects
We are working to better understand the transition between normal growth, overgrowth, and tumor development in children with BWS. Current research includes studying how changes in the liver can lead to cancer and how differences in tongue muscle cells contribute to macroglossia. Our work also focuses on improving clinical care and treatment approaches for children with BWS.
If you are interested in learning more or participating in research, please contact [email protected].

BWS Educational Materials
Our educational resources help families, physicians, and caregivers better understand BWS. Materials include information sheets about diagnosis, genetic causes, and medical management, as well as our BWS educational coloring book. These resources are available in multiple languages through our BWS Educational Website

BWS Registry
Our international BWS Registry includes hundreds of families from across the United States and around the world. This registry allows researchers to collect important information that helps improve diagnosis, treatment, and care. Data from the registry helped develop international tumor screening guidelines and has also connected families with specialists and support networks. To learn more or join the registry, email [email protected] or visit BWS Registry website

International BWS Conferences
Every two years we host an international conference that brings together researchers, clinicians, and families affected by BWS. These events allow us to share research progress, improve clinical care, and build a stronger global community. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2025 conference. Upcoming conferences will take place in Cervia, Italy (May 2026) and Philadelphia (July 2027).

Recent Research
We are excited to share our BWS Publications website, which highlights the latest research about Beckwith-Wiedemann Spectrum. Each publication includes a family-friendly summary explaining the background, purpose, key findings, and conclusions so families can easily understand new discoveries.

Learn more about the inspiring children and families in our community by visiting our BWS Heroes page.

Thank you for helping us advance research, improve care, and support families affected by Beckwith-Wiedemann Spectrum.