About The James Fund

We are mothers and fathers, grandparents, siblings and friends. Our kids were healthy until one day they were not. Neuroblastoma was something we’d never heard of until it consumed our lives. And every waking moment became about saving our children.

Some have made it. Far too many have not.

But that will change.

Soon. Thanks to The James Fund and those who help us fund our life saving research.

The James Fund was founded around the kitchen table of the Birrell family who were desperate to save their young son James. James’ story and his infectious sense of hope and optimism inspired many to help the cause, and is captured in a book written by his father, Syd, called “Ya Can’t Let Cancer Ruin Your Day.”

Our supporters have included Disney, MDS Nordion, and Hollywood actor Tom Hanks. Tom Hanks is now our Honorary Patron.

When James died in 2001 at the age of 8, The James Fund not only continued, but grew, determined to save other children from neuroblastoma, as James expressly wanted.

No matter how big we get, or how much money we raise, we will always remember that, at our core, we are about families: neuroblastoma families and the family minded people and companies who have become our supporters.

So that’s who we are. We are people who are determined to see a day when no more children die from neuroblastoma.

Who are you? Will you stand with us?

And could you be the one whose donation – no matter how small — will save the lives of kids with neuroblastoma?