Denver, CO — A powerful day of storytelling, scientific dialogue, and advocacy marked the latest sessions at the 2025 International Kidney Cancer Symposium – North America (IKCS-NA), where pediatric renal tumor research took center stage. The event brought together leaders in the field, parent advocates, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving outcomes for adults, adolescents, and children facing kidney cancers.
Kim Frederking, Vice Chair of the Cole Frederking Legacy Foundation, shared the experiences of her son, Cole, who bravely lived with Wilms’ tumor as a teenager. It was an emotional reminder of why this work matters.
Cole passed away in 2024, and his story continues to inspire efforts to elevate the needs of pediatric patients within the broader kidney cancer community. Attendees described the session as both heartbreaking and galvanizing, underscoring the urgent need for continued research and support.
The Kidney Cancer Association (KCA) and Elevate Childhood Cancer Research and Advocacy partnered, with support from the Joey’s Wings Foundation to bring forward a robust and inclusive program, ensuring parent advocates had a meaningful seat at the table. Participants expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to learn directly from leading clinicians and researchers, as well as from one another.
Advocates in the pediatric renal cancer space—many of them parents who have walked this journey firsthand—were recognized for their resilience, insight, and unwavering push for progress.
Following the inaugural Pediatric Renal Tumor Roundtable—they’re moving forward with clear action items and renewed determination.
The roundtable brought together an exceptional group of experts and advocates, all committed to driving meaningful progress for children with renal tumors. The conversations were collaborative, solutions-focused, and grounded in the shared goal of improving outcomes for every child affected by these diseases.
With the first roundtable now complete, they are already advancing the priority initiatives identified during the meeting. This gathering marked not just a milestone, but a starting point for coordinated, impactful work ahead.🎗
