Mission: Drive research, expand knowledge,
and advance care for the NF community.
Vision: End NF.
We are dedicated
to medical progress.
At the Children’s Tumor Foundation, we’re working to better the lives of more than 4 million people who live with some type of neurofibromatosis or schwannomatosis. We envision a day when patients can live their lives free of the pain and difficulties that come with nerve tumors, and our innovative team-based approach to drug development is making that vision a reality.
We’re here for everyone
NF affects 1 in every 2,000 births, and more than 4 million individuals worldwide. NF patients are told to “watch and wait” to see if their tumors will grow, and determine later if they will impact their lives with devastating conditions such as cancer. We don’t think that’s fair, and we don’t think that’s necessary. By bringing together the brightest minds in research and industry, we can change “watch and wait” to “here’s what you can do.
NF1
Learn more about neurofibromatosis type 1, or NF1, which affects 1 in every 2,500 births.
How We Do it
Our pledge to the NF community is an unwavering commitment to pioneering research, innovative funding, and groundbreaking drug development for all types of neurofibromatosis or schwannomatosis.
CTF’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan has Four Innovation Pillars
Develop More Drugs
Expand the research field, develop panels of drug selection tools, double the number of R&D grants, and launch revolutionary projects.
Accelerate Treatments
Expedite the discovery of life-changing therapies with an innovative preclinical hub-and-spoke model, the ultimate all-in-one solution for pharma and biotech pioneers.
Stronger Clinical Trials
Strengthen and accelerate the development and approval of drugs being evaluated in clinical trial consortia and/or platform trials.
Empower Stakeholders
Enhance the understanding of NF and the NF Registry, increase patient participation, and train ambassadors. Expand the NF Clinic Network and the number of physicians and specialists who treat NF, including adult care.
Ending NF through research
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Yesterday
Founded in 1978, CTF celebrates 45 years of funding research, investing nearly $200 million to advance the understanding of NF in the search for treatments and a cure.
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Today
CTF is the world’s leading nonprofit dedicated to funding and driving innovative research that will result in effective treatments for the millions of people worldwide who live with NF
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Tomorrow
Our innovation pillars are to develop more drugs, accelerate treatments, strengthen clinical trials, and empower all stakeholders.
Expanding Knowledge
CTF hosts webinars, clinic events near you, an annual NF Summit for patients, and the NF Conference for professionals.
Search our Resource Library to learn more about NF and the aspects that are most important to you.
Advancing Treatment and Inspiring Hope
The Children’s Tumor Foundation is passionate about working with you, our dedicated donors and friends, to Make NF Visible. We want to make sure the world sees NF and sees each person living with it. Please watch this video to hear the passionate voices of Christine, Joel, Salina, and Tyler – four incredible people who are Making NF Visible.
Our Growing and Global Reach
Anchored to CTF’s strategic plan and reflective of our mission, our 2023 Top Ten Advancements in NF Research are accelerating the path to more drug approvals that will better the lives of NF patients.
Major platform trial design established in Europe that will accelerate the path to approved NF drugs.
NF2-SWN INTUITT Trial demonstrates promising first results for patients.
CTF launches Preclinical Hub to streamline access and guide potential treatments through a swift screening journey.
CTF partners with NASA for the Year of Open Science and a commitment to data sharing.
CTF and GCAR announce strategic alliance for NF platform trials.
Make NF Visible Gallery
Our Make NF Visible Summer Photo contest winner Carly McKay.
CTF’s annual NF Conference brings together the brightest minds in neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis research and care.
Each May, the world celebrates NF Awareness Month by Shining a Light on NF; hundreds of buildings and landmarks light up in blue and green to raise NF awareness.
Shine a Light NF Walk is the premiere fundraising program of the Children’s Tumor Foundation, bringing families together to support one another and make a difference.
Other ways to support
Advocate
Your voice has the power to impact public policy and promote action to find a cure for NF.
Make a Donation
With your help, we can continue to fund critical research and one day find a cure.
Raise Awareness
Help us make sure the world knows about NF and sees the people who live with it.
