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Charlie

Charlie, wearing orange t-shirt and black shorts, at the beach.

Charlie benefited from clinical trials that were made possible, in part, through data sharing.

Childhood Cancer Survivor   

The news that 18-month-old Charlie was diagnosed with neuroblastoma was hard to bear for his parents, Regina and Eric. It became even harder when they found out the cancer, which started in his abdomen, had already spread.  
 
Despite the overwhelming diagnosis, hope emerged through clinical trial participation, which played a pivotal role in Charlie’s treatment and recovery. These trials benefited immensely from data shared by other patients and researchers. 
 
“There are so many more options now for sharing and analyzing large data sets,” said Eric. “This could bring meaningful treatments and clinical trials to people living outside of major metropolitan areas with established cancer centers.”  
 
Today, Charlie’s an active child who’s had no sign of cancer for more than 8 years. He loves building with LEGO sets, practicing tae kwon do, and learning to play tennis. His story shows what’s possible when data, research, and hope work together in the fight against cancer.

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