SAVANNAH, Ga. - GeorgiaChron -- CURE Childhood Cancer, the only organization dedicated to supporting local children with cancer and funding pediatric oncology research, invited the community to come together for an evening of inspiration, celebration, and hope at the 12th Annual Catie's Gathering in Savannah. Presented by Coastal Electric, the event took place on Friday, Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. at Kehoe Iron Works at Trustees' Garden (660 E. Broughton St, Savannah, Ga.).

This heartwarming event was held in memory of Catie Wilkins, a courageous young girl who bravely fought and lost her battle with pediatric cancer. Catie's Gathering has since grown into a powerful movement, raising vital funds to advance pediatric cancer research and provide critical support to affected families.

Since its inception, Catie's Gathering has grown from a single event to five locations across South Georgia, raising over $5 million. These impressive funds have been instrumental in supporting CURE's Precision Medicine Program, which develops individualized treatments based on each child's unique genetic profile, as well as delivering critical assistance to families navigating the unimaginable challenges brought on by childhood cancer.

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"Catie's Gathering is a deeply moving event that illustrates the compassion of our community and its dedication to fighting childhood cancer," said Mandy Garola, Vice President of CURE Childhood Cancer in South Georgia. "Funds raised during the evening allow us to provide meaningful support for families and drive groundbreaking research through initiatives like our Precision Medicine Program, giving children and their families the hope for a brighter future. We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests who make this event possible."

Coastal Electric of Georgia was the title sponsor, and they are joined by by additional event sponsors including Ms. Cynthia Willett, Memorial Health, Savannah Toyota, and Susan and Larry Woods.

Childhood cancers differ from adult cancers in how they grow and spread, how they are treated, and how they respond to treatment. Childhood cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children in the United States, with over 17,000 children diagnosed every year. Yet, only six drugs have been developed specifically for childhood cancers in the past 25 years. CURE Childhood Cancer is addressing this disparity by funding innovative research and providing hands-on support to families affected by pediatric cancer.