.png)
Welcome To The
Will Strong Team
Together, we’re making a difference in the fight against pediatric cancer.
Join us in supporting groundbreaking research to help save lives!
Our Core Mission
The Will Irwin Fund was founded by Mike and Joanna Irwin in memory of their son, William, who fought a courageous battle with stage 4 pediatric cancer at just 3 months old. Will’s battle ended too soon, and through their heartache, Mike and Joanna made it their mission to ensure that no other child has to face a cancer diagnosis without hope for a cure.
A Legacy of Hope
Through unimaginable grief, the Irwin family transformed their loss into a powerful, life-changing mission. Every day, the Will Irwin Fund works toward a future where every child diagnosed with pediatric cancer has access to the best treatments and the hope of a cure. Will’s legacy is the heartbeat of this mission, and it fuels their determination to turn today’s heartache into tomorrow’s triumphs.
Teaming Up with PCRF
Through their partnership with the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRF), Mike and Joanna are helping to push forward vital research that brings us closer to a cure. Since its creation, the Will Irwin Fund has raised over $2.5M to support top-tier researchers who are making real progress in the fight against pediatric cancer.
Funding Groundbreaking Research
The Will Irwin Fund is proud to support leading researchers who are working on groundbreaking treatments and clinical trials. By funding this critical research, the fund is directly contributing to advancements in pediatric cancer care that are saving lives today.
How You Can Get Involved.
A cure for pediatric cancer is within reach—but the Irwin family can’t do it alone. Your support is essential in making this vision a reality. Whether through donating, attending fundraising events, or spreading awareness, you can be part of the change. Together, we can help build a cancer-free future for all children.
What We've Achieved So Far
Since its inception, the Will Irwin Fund has raised over $2.5 million, directing these funds to support pioneering pediatric cancer research in partnership with leading institutions. In consultation with Mike and Joanna Irwin, the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation has allocated proceeds from all Will Strong events to support the following research initiatives:
-
Dr. Ashley Plant: Ann & Robert Lurie Children’s Hospital – DIPG Phase 1 Clinical Trial
-
Dr. Michelle Monje: Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital – Clinical Trials for High-Grade Gliomas
-
Dr. Rajkumar Venkatramani: Texas Children’s Hospital – Rare Tumor Program
These efforts are helping to advance the search for effective treatments and ultimately a cure for pediatric cancer.
How We've Made An Impact
The Will Irwin Fund supports cutting-edge research through partnerships with top researchers across the country. Here are some of the amazing doctors we’re helping support in their quest for a cure:
An Eternal Legacy
Though his time on earth was short, Will's legacy is eternal. His bravery and spirit continue to inspire us to fight for a cure for pediatric cancer—because every child deserves a chance to grow up."
– Joanna Irwin, Will’s mother
Will's Story
William was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer when he was only 3 months old. Will fought hard for 5 months, and despite the efforts of his amazing team of doctors, Will passed away in our arms on May 31st, 2019. Will's cancer was just too aggressive for his little body and because of his young age and the lack of research dedicated to pediatric cancer, we didn't have a lot of treatment options. Since his passing, our goal and Will's legacy is that every child facing the challenges of pediatric cancer will be able to hear the words, "We have a cure."
Their Courage Fuels Our Mission
These children, both those who continue to fight and those we’ve tragically lost, inspire us every day to keep pushing forward in our mission. Their bravery, strength, and stories fuel our determination to find a cure for pediatric cancer.
Will’s Warriors:
The Fighters
Will’s Warriors are children currently battling pediatric cancer, showing unparalleled courage every single day. They fight not only for their own lives but for the lives of all children who face this relentless disease. These young heroes continue to inspire us with their resilience and unwavering spirits.
Join Our Upcoming Events
Mark your calendar
Get in Touch
Please reach out to us if you would like more information on how you can help us with our mission of creating a cancer-free future for all children!