JOIN THE FIGHT
AGAINST PEDIATRIC
BRAIN TUMORS
A pediatric brain tumor diagnosis is not a journey anyone should travel alone. Together, we can free families from financial stress and fight childhood brain cancer. Together, we are strong. We are fearless. We are IronMatt.
The Matthew Larson Foundation for Pediatric Brain Tumors, or IronMatt, understands firsthand how frightening a childhood brain cancer diagnosis can be. That’s why we’re on a mission to build a network committed to reducing family hardship, funding pediatric brain tumor research, and giving children the opportunity to live long, healthy lives.
The Matthew Larson Foundation for Pediatric Brain Tumors, or IronMatt, understands firsthand how frightening a childhood brain cancer diagnosis can be. That’s why we’re on a mission to build a network committed to reducing family hardship, funding pediatric brain tumor research, and giving children the opportunity to live long, healthy lives.
OUR PROGRAMS
WHAT WE DO
Financial Assistance
for Families
Navigating challenges like treatment regimens, extended hospitalizations, and everyday expenses can take an emotional and financial toll on families and caregivers.
The IronMatt Family Assistance Program aims to relieve the financial burden for families with a child undergoing brain or central nervous system cancer treatment.
Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Grants
Since 2007, IronMatt has funded groundbreaking research projects in hopes of finding a cure.
Learn more about the IronMatt Research Grant Program and how you can join the fight against childhood brain cancer.
FACTS
FACTS ABOUT PEDIATRIC BRAIN & CNS TUMORS
From the American Cancer Society and National Library of Medicine.
Brain and spinal cord tumors are the second most common cancers in children (after leukemia).
More than 4,000 brain and spinal cord tumors are diagnosed each year in children and teens.
Brain tumors account for about 1 out of 4 childhood cancers.
Among all childhood cancers, brain tumors are the leading cause of death.
One in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer before their 20th birthday.
An estimated 5,900 new cases of pediatric brain tumors will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year.
OUR HEROES
IT'S A MARATHON
IronKids and their families are the direct recipients of your generous donations. They are strong. They are fearless. They inspire us every day to go the extra mile in the fight against pediatric brain cancer.
The first IronKid, Matthew Larson, better known as IronMatt, was our inspiration for the foundation. When he lost his race to cancer at age 7, it became our mission to help the kids fighting this devastating disease run the distance. Because every child should be able to swim, bike, and run until they’re 70, not 7.
STRONG
FEARLESS
BRAVE
COURAGEOUS
OUR IMPACT
NUMBERS
$4+M
In Family Assistance
2,200+
IronKids and Their Families Supported
$6.3M
Research Grants Funded to Search for a Cure
We earned a 100% across three beacons:
1. Culture & Community
2. Accountability & Finance
3. Leadership & Adaptability
GET INVOLVED
EVENTS
Discover other ways you can get involved with the IronMatt cause!
IronMatt Gala
The Gala is our biggest fundraising event of the year, held each September in NYC.
New York City Marathon
Team IronMatt is happy to have IronMan competitor Kirsten Kincade supporting our runners.
March Mattness
March Mattness is a fun evening of beer pong and dancing, held every March.
TESTIMONIALS
REAL PEOPLE, REAL RESEARCH, REAL RESULTS
Dr. Michelle Monje, IronMatt MAC Member, Published for Advancement in Treatment of Diffuse Midline Gliomas with CAR-T Cells
Dr. Michelle Monje, a member of the IronMatt Medical Advisory Committee, and her colleague, Dr. Crystal Mackall, both of Stanford Medicine led a promising immune cell trial which led to the shrinkage of tumors in children battling a typically incurable brain
IronKid Lily is a Big Sister
Attendees at the 2024 September Gala learned about IronKid Lily and her battle with DIPG. We also learned that Lily had a bit of good news coming her way, mom was expecting twins. IronMatt is happy to announce IronKid Lily
Matt Giegerich to Lead IronMatt as CEO
Matt Giegerich joins the IronMatt staff as Chief Executive Officer and leader of the Foundation’s mission: to build a network committed to reducing family hardship, funding pediatric brain tumor research and giving children the opportunity to live long, healthy lives.
