Jeff Gordon strikes it big for kids with cancer at Riley Hospital

INDIANAPOLIS – The Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation celebrated its “Hats Off To Hope” Dr. Seuss-themed bowling tournament recently to benefit Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health. Funds raised from this year’s event fulfilled the $1.5 million commitment to Riley Hospital and the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Pediatric Cancer Research Lab.

Sports-loving teenagers Dylan Shumaker, Brock Meister, and Seth Young shared their cancer battle with four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon at the 12th annual Jeff Gordon Bowling Event benefiting Riley Hospital. They were among six Riley Hospital families invited to bowl at the “Hats Off to Hope” Dr. Seuss-themed event.

“I am so proud of the work that is being done at Riley Hospital. Research remains our top priority to ensure one day we reach the day when no child will face the uncertainty of cancer,” Gordon said.

The event was overflowing with laughter, a live band, heaving team lanes, cancer survivors along with their families, VIP guests and an abundance of generous supporters of Riley Hospital and the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation.

“Jeff recognizes the importance of pediatric cancer research and for 12 years has supported cancer research and clinical care at Riley Hospital for Children,” said Kevin O’Keefe, president and CEO, Riley Children’s Foundation. “Every year 250 children are diagnosed with cancer in Indiana. Riley treats 85 percent of those cases. One day, thanks to Jeff and other donors’ generous support and vision, research will find the treatments and cures to secure all these children’s future.”

Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation celebrated a total of $3.5 million in gifts and pledges to Riley Children’s Foundation.