Strides for Sarcoma

Strides for Sarcoma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2023 to advance pediatric sarcoma research and support children and families affected by the disease. Inspired by Maia James, who was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma at six and died at nine, the organization works to honor her legacy by pursuing better treatment options and offering practical, compassionate support.

Its research funding includes the Maia James Sarcoma Innovation Grant, which supports innovative work with the potential to improve outcomes for children and young adults with sarcoma. In 2026, the organization awarded its inaugural $40,000 grant to Dr. Pengda Liu and his team at the University of North Carolina for research into antibody-drug conjugates for relapsed Ewing sarcoma.

Strides for Sarcoma also provides personalized care packages, holiday stockings, birthday cards, family resources, sarcoma information, and grief support. Families can access programs designed to offer comfort, encouragement, and connection throughout treatment and beyond. The community can contribute through donations, fundraising, events, sponsorships, volunteering, and merchandise.