Let's LaCROSSe Out Cancer!

In an inspiring effort to unite the lacrosse community around a vital cause, LaCROSSe Out Cancer has emerged as a powerful force for pediatric cancer research. Triad Athletes recently sat down with Bonnie Lattimore and Kayla Johnson to explore the origins, impact, and future of this unique campaign. Below, we delve into the conversation, blending Q&A with editorial insights that capture the dedication behind this initiative.

Q: How did LaCROSSe Out Cancer start, and what inspired its creation?

Bonnie Lattimore: The campaign began with a simple but profound concept: kids helping kids. I used to work with the Boston Cannons, and after they merged with the Premier Lacrosse League, I transitioned into a new role. Kevin Barney, President of Massachusetts Youth Lacrosse, wanted to give back and felt lacrosse could be the platform. We created a challenge where youth players performed 47 reps, in honor of the 47 children diagnosed with cancer daily in the U.S. The simplicity and relatability of the challenge helped it resonate, raising $32,000 in its first year.

By aligning the campaign with lacrosse’s grassroots community, LaCROSSe Out Cancer meets people where they are. The youth-led angle amplifies the message that small efforts, especially from young players, can fuel meaningful change. The 47-rep challenge connects directly to a daily reality many might otherwise overlook, grounding this campaign in purpose.

Q: What’s the goal of LaCROSSe Out Cancer, and how does the campaign operate?

Bonnie: Our main objective is to raise both awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research, and we do so by keeping the campaign accessible. Whether it’s 47-yard sprints, passes, or wall ball sessions, teams can get involved in ways that suit them best. We’ve had over 300 teams participate in just two years, generating over $250,000, which funds critical research hours and clinical trials.

The versatility of LaCROSSe Out Cancer’s approach is a major part of its success. By inviting teams to engage in ways that suit them, Bonnie and her team have fostered a broad community of support. The campaign's substantial impact in a short time speaks to its resonance with young athletes and their families. This approach has made LaCROSSe Out Cancer more than just a fundraiser; it’s a movement that allows participants to personalize their commitment to pediatric cancer research.

Q: Why partner with a nonprofit like the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRF)?

Kayla Johnson: There’s a significant funding gap for pediatric cancer research—only 4% of federal cancer research funds go to kids. With campaigns like LaCROSSe Out Cancer, we reach people through a sport they love and introduce a purpose that they may not have previously considered. It’s about meeting people where they are, merging community spirit with a crucial cause.

PCRF's campaign exemplifies how you can use sports to connect with supporters in meaningful ways. In a world where countless causes vie for attention, Bonnie and Kayla’s strategy recognizes the power of shared experiences. By embedding the cause within a sport, they create organic awareness and encourage support that feels personal.

Q: Can you share a success story or impact statistics from the campaign?

Bonnie: Since launching in 2022, LaCROSSe Out Cancer has grown by 500%, raising $250,000 to support 5,000 hours of research. Our impact statement links each $50 donation to one hour of research, and $25,000 can fund a child’s clinical trial. It’s rewarding to see how this campaign has become a tangible source of hope.

For families affected by pediatric cancer, each dollar raised represents another hour of research, another clinical trial, and another chance for progress. This campaign’s growth speaks to the power of collective action and community support.

Q: What partnerships have been instrumental to your success?

Bonnie:  Alongside the PLL and Massachusetts Youth Lacrosse, we’ve collaborated with the Nick Strong Foundation, which became a major partner after the loss of a young player named Nick Gaspar. We’re also working with 285 Lacrosse INC.  for the LaCROSSe Out Cancer Atlanta Invitational which will showcase a rematch of the 2024 NCAA Men’s National Championship game between Maryland and Notre Dame on March 1, 2025.   Also, we’re excited to grow our LaCROSSe Out Cancer committee with influential lacrosse figures. These partnerships help us expand our reach and aim for a million-dollar goal in the next two years.

LaCROSSe Out Cancer’s ability to form partnerships with other organizations shows the strength of its mission and the importance of networks. Each collaboration expands the campaign’s reach and adds another layer of credibility and momentum. 

Q: What’s the five-year vision for LaCROSSe Out Cancer?

Bonnie: We aim to raise $3 million within five years, making a significant dent in funding for pediatric cancer research. Currently, cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children, yet research resources are limited. We want to change that by continuing to expand our partnerships and deepen our community connections.

With a five-year goal to triple its impact, LaCROSSe Out Cancer is setting the stage to become a pillar in both the lacrosse and cancer research communities. Bonnie and Kayla’s work demonstrates how sports can drive social change, and their dedication has built a campaign that goes beyond lacrosse, championing hope and action in the face of pediatric cancer.