Imagine Dragons Raises $1 Million for Pediatric Cancer

On Friday, Las Vegas rock band Imagine Dragons helped raise $1 million to benefit the Tyler Robinson Foundation (TRF).

Founded in 2013 by Imagine Dragons, the TRF works “to strengthen families financially and emotionally as they cope with the tragedy of a pediatric cancer diagnosis by offseting out-of-pocket life expenses.” It was named in honor of Tyler Robinson, a 16-year-old fan of Imagine Dragons who passed away from rhabdomyosarcoma in 2013.

We are humbled beyond belief. Thanks to all our supporters & a special thanks to @joelmchale and @Imaginedragons #slaycancerwithdragons pic.twitter.com/msyzlJ0MVu

— TRF (@TRFdotORG) August 28, 2017

According to the American Cancer Society, about 3 percent of all childhood cancers are rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), and about 350 new cases of it occur each year in the U.S. The foundation focuses on all pediatric cancers, as only 4 percent of federal government cancer research funding goes to children.

“The one million dollars raised will enable TRF to provide deep financial support to many more families struggling with a pediatric cancer diagnosis by taking away at least one worry — the financial worry,”  Kim Gradisher, executive director of TRF, told The Mighty. “TRF support enables these families to meet their financial obligations of healthcare bills, mortgages/rent, etc., so they may focus on caring for their child physically and focus on the emotional support the family needs as a whole.”

“TRF demonstrates the influence music has in this world. We will continue to grow and will continue to ‘Slay Cancer With Dragons.’”

Photos courtesy of Imagine Dragons Facebook page