Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer

Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia (JMML) is a rare and aggressive blood cancer mainly affecting young children. It is characterized by the presence of somatic PTPN11 mutations in approximately 35% of cases. Current treatments, like chemotherapy, are not very effective, and stem cell transplants are the only potential cure, but they only work for about half of patients, with relapse being the leading cause of death. Surprisingly, there are currently no FDA-approved medications for treating JMML. Chronic inflammation seems to be involved in JMML development.

Across the cancer experience, from diagnosis through survivorship, adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer are struggling and their needs are not being adequately addressed. AYA survivorship is complicated by physical and psychosocial difficulties and higher participation in risk-taking behaviors. These complications increase AYA risk for secondary cancers and other chronic illnesses. To help minimize long-term health problems and engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors, AYA must establish and maintain a good relationship with their healthcare providers (i.e.