Formation 1972 Region served Central Pennsylvania | Legal status Foundation | |
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Motto Conquering Childhood Cancer Purpose Financial support, medical team support, research support Location Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital | ||
The four diamonds fund conquering childhood cancer penn state hershey
Four Diamonds is a charitable organization based out of Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Its ultimate objective is to "conquer childhood cancer".
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The fund was established in 1972 by Charles and Irma Millard following the death of their son Chris from pediatric cancer. The name refers to "The Four Diamonds", a fantasy story (later made into a TV movie) written by Chris shortly before succumbing to the disease at the age of 14.
Foundation
Four Diamonds takes a three-pronged approach to this: medical care, financial and emotional support, and pediatric cancer research. Any child treated for pediatric cancer at Penn State Children's Hospital is eligible for support, and the organization's policy is to first cover all medical costs not paid by insurance. Essentially, families never see a bill. Approximately 100 new families receive support each year.
These efforts are partially funded by the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON), the world's largest student-run philanthropy. Four Diamonds leads several events for the families and contributors. Events, such as the annual 5K Run/Fun Walk are held annually. THON is a major contributor to the organization and as of 2017 has raised nearly $150 million for Four Diamonds since 1977.
