Children’s Hospital at Memorial receives $150,000 donation for pediatric cancer care

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Pediatric cancer care in Savannah received a major boost Thursday thanks to a $150,000 donation from Hyundai Hope and Hyundai Hope On Wheels.

The grant was awarded to the Children’s Hospital at Memorial, with funds going directly toward supporting young patients undergoing cancer treatment and their families.

As part of Thursday’s presentation, pediatric cancer and surgery patients took part in a signature “handprint ceremony.” Children placed paint-covered hands on doctors’ lab coats and a white Hyundai vehicle to leave colorful handprints, symbolizing their individual journeys, honoring those still in treatment, remembering loved ones lost, and celebrating those who have finished care.

One cancer survivor in attendance, who now serves as a national youth ambassador for the organization, spoke on inspiring other children facing the same fight.

John Gustaferro, executive director of Hyundai Hope On Wheels, shared words from the ambassador during the event.

“She said, ‘You know, going through cancer reminds me that it takes both rain and sunshine to make a rainbow,’” Gustaferro said. “And our hope is that funding can help bring some sunshine and ultimately a rainbow, in ringing the bell for a cure.”

Over the past 28 years, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has contributed more than $300 million to pediatric cancer research and children’s hospitals nationwide.