In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Game Over c*ncer, we sit down with Jasan Zimmerman—a three-time childhood and young adult cancer survivor, former molecular biologist, and now the Senior Director of Foundation Relations at the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health. Jasan opens up about his lifelong journey through cancer, the mental health struggles that often follow survivorship, and his evolution from patient to patient advocate. With honesty and vulnerability, he shar...
Jul 01, 2025•39 min
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val and Dana of Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation sit down with standout intern Deborah Bello to explore how the next generation is shaping the future of nonprofit work. Deborah, a University of Central Florida student and CKc’s social media intern, shares her journey into purpose-driven work, from her Nigerian roots and sense of community, to the deep impact of working to fund pediatric cancer research. Together, they refl...
Jun 17, 2025•25 min
In this week's episode, Dana and Val unpack the rising concern around potential federal funding cuts and their devastating impact on pediatric cancer research. Drawing from real-time experiences with researchers and families, they discuss the challenges of navigating social media noise, burnout, misinformation, and how research cycles already measured in decades could be further delayed. With only 4% of the national cancer research budget allocated to pediatric cancers, the stakes have never bee...
Jun 03, 2025•28 min
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we’re joined by a very special tiny guest—Violet Nichols, daughter of CKc Executive Director Dana Nichols, and one of our most enthusiastic members of our Champion Society! Together with co-host Val Solomon, Violet shares what it's like to grow up around a nonprofit that's fighting for a cure—and how even kids can make a difference in the lives of children battling cancer. From making bows for the Gold Gala auction baskets to host...
May 20, 2025•16 min
In this deeply moving and powerfully unifying episode, Game Over: c*ncer welcomes Beth Robertson from Cookies for Kids’ Cancer — an organization so aligned with Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation, it feels like a “soulmate” in the fight against childhood cancer. Beth shares her powerful story of advocacy born from personal heartbreak, including the loss of her grandson KJ, and how cookies turned into a catalyst for change. Together with hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols, they explore the critic...
May 06, 2025•33 min
I t’s more than a milestone—it’s a movement. In this special episode, hosts Dana Nichols (Executive Director) and Val Solomon (Director of Program Impact) reflect on Cannonball Kids’ c*ncer Foundation’s 10-year journey. From humble beginnings to national impact, they share what it’s taken to build a nonprofit focused on innovative pediatric cancer research and the ripple effects of a decade of work. Tune in for an honest and hope-filled conversation about the challenges, victories, and future go...
Apr 22, 2025•31 min
In this heartwarming and powerful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols sit down with Allen Roberson—college student, brain cancer survivor, and current CKc intern. Diagnosed as a teenager with an extremely rare brain tumor, Allen shares his incredible story of resilience, hope, and the unwavering support of his family. Through six brain surgeries, 40 radiation treatments, and months of rehab, Allen emerged with a positive spirit that continues to inspire everyone arou...
Apr 08, 2025•30 min
In this episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Dana Nichols and Val Solomon dive into the complex and emotional tightrope of balancing hope and reality in pediatric cancer. Joining the conversation is Dr. Claire Wakefield, a psychologist, researcher, and professor specializing in pediatric psycho-oncology. Dr. Wakefield leads the Behavioral Sciences Unit at UNSW and Sydney Children’s Hospital, one of the largest pediatric cancer survivorship research groups in the world. Together, we explore the ps...
Mar 18, 2025•36 min
How do you go from saying, “Somebody should do something about that,” to actually being the one to take action? In this episode of Game Over c*ncer, we dive into that exact moment—the first, scary step toward making a difference. Hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols are joined by Whitney Brittain, a former CKc board member, who shares her journey from being deeply impacted by a social media post about pediatric cancer to organizing a beloved annual event, Santa Comes to Scottsdale. What started as...
Mar 04, 2025•31 min
In this special episode of Game Over c*ncer, we turn the spotlight on our very own host, Val Solomon! From her 17-year journey in the nonprofit sector to her role at Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation, Val has worn just about every hat imaginable. Join Dana Nichols as she dives into Val’s experience navigating the highs and heartbreaks of pediatric cancer research, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and the passion that fuels her mission. From the early days at CKc to building a culture...
Feb 18, 2025•36 min
In this powerful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols dive into the importance of incorporating patient experience into research. Meet Dr. Annalynn Williams, an assistant professor of surgery and cancer control at the University of Rochester Medical Center, and young adult cancer survivor. Dr. Williams shares how her personal battle with cancer shaped her career path and fueled her passion for survivorship research. She introduces the concept of the survivor scientist...
Feb 04, 2025•36 min
In this heartfelt episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val Solomon, Director of Program Impact at Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation, and Dana Nichols, Executive Director of CKc, dive into the realities of building a career in nonprofit leadership. Dana shares her personal journey of nearly two decades in the nonprofit sector, her passion for connecting people with impactful missions, and the lessons she's learned about resilience, balance, and staying inspired in the face of challenges. From her...
Jan 21, 2025•36 min
n this episode, we sit down with the incredible Kay Rawlins —founder of Orlando City and Orlando Pride soccer teams, former CKc board member, and a dedicated advocate for community impact. Known as the " First Lady of Soccer " in Orlando, Kay shares her experiences in board leadership, her philosophy on building community, and the role of sports in driving positive change. Highlights include: The power of showing up for your community and leaving a lasting impact The emotional reality of pediatr...
Jan 09, 2025•38 min
In this inspiring episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we sit down with Dr. Joelle Straehla, a CKc-funded young investigator who is revolutionizing pediatric brain cancer treatment with cutting-edge nanoparticle drug delivery systems. Dr. Straehla, a self-proclaimed “nerd” who combines her passion for science, medicine, and engineering, shares her incredible journey — from her days at Dana-Farber and MIT to her new role at Seattle Children’s Hospital. We discuss: -Her path to becoming a physician-scien...
Dec 17, 2024•32 min
Aubrey Reichard-Eline is a dedicated advocate and fundraiser who has turned her family’s battle with cancer into a mission for change. Listen as Aubrey recounts the life-altering moments following her daughter Grace's brain tumor diagnosis and her subsequent career shift from the fashion industry to pediatric cancer research fundraising. Discover how Aubrey balances the demands of engaging deeply with cancer-related topics while ensuring her own and her family’s well-being. Aubrey shares her ins...
Dec 03, 2024•40 min
In this heartfelt episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols dive into a powerful story of resilience, compassion, and purpose. Meet Nicole Youtz, a nursing student inspired by her brother Tyler’s journey with neuroblastoma, who’s now training to be a pediatric oncology nurse at the same hospital that treated him. Nicole opens up about how her family's experience with childhood cancer shaped her career path and led to the creation of Toys from Tyler, an effort her family ha...
Nov 19, 2024•23 min
In this powerful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we delve into the transformative impact of collaborative research in pediatric oncology. Hosts Val Solomon, Director of Program Impact, and Dana Nichols, Executive Director of Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation (CKc), are joined by special guest Dr. Jonathan Metts, a pediatric oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. Metts shares his inspiring journey from a kid motivated by his father’s battle with cancer to a dedicated researcher at the forefront ...
Nov 05, 2024•29 min
Aligning your core values could transform life's adversities into powerful catalysts for change. In this uplifting episode, listeners are invited to learn about the concept of "moment momentum" with their special guest, Brant Menswar. Brant, a sought-after speaker and advocate for pediatric cancer, brings his invaluable insights on how anchoring oneself in core values can propel individuals forward, even in the toughest of times. He shares how the tragic loss of his son, Theo, to cancer continue...
Oct 22, 2024•44 min
Matt Kopkin, embraced the challenge of becoming a full-time grants administrator at Cannonball Kids cancer Foundation. This episode uncovers the crucial role of grant funding in pediatric cancer research, shedding light on how CKc bridges the gap in government resources to fuel groundbreaking clinical trials and support young investigators. Matt opens up about his transition from a temporary position to a pivotal role within the organization, sharing personal stories and insights into the dynami...
Oct 08, 2024•32 min
In this episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols sit down with a clinical psychologist from AdventHealth Orlando, Dr. Carrasco, to discuss the often-overlooked challenges that pediatric cancer survivors face once treatment ends. They explore the emotional, physical, and cognitive adjustments children and their families must navigate and how the transition from patient to survivor can be both a relief and a new source of anxiety. From dealing with survivor’s guilt to manag...
Sep 24, 2024•23 min
In this heartwarming, lighthearted and at times chaotic episode of Game Over: c*ncer, the lively Wiggins Kids join the show, bringing their joy, energy, and unique perspectives. Eldest brother, Cannon Wiggins, is a pediatric cancer survivor and the namesake of the Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation. In this episode we showcase the Wiggins kids BEING KIDS, the goal for every cancer family. We dive into fun games, interesting "would you rather" questions, and some surprising hot takes as we explor...
Sep 17, 2024•23 min
In this deeply moving episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we sit down with Josh and Gallite Kestler as they share the emotional highs and heartbreaking lows of their son Jake’s battle with cancer. From the initial diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia to the devastating glioblastoma, the Kestlers opened up about the impossible choices they faced and the strength they found in each other. They discuss the challenges of navigating the complex world of pediatric cancer treatments, the importance of i...
Sep 10, 2024•32 min
In this episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we dive into the complex emotions and experiences surrounding cancer with special guest Chelsey Gomez, the artist and advocate behind "Oh You're So Tough." Chelsey shares her journey of turning dark moments into humor and creating a community of support through her art and online presence. From hosting the transformative Not Dead Yet Fest to fostering an online space where people can openly share their stories, Chelsey’s approach highlights the importance of...
Sep 03, 2024•39 min
This week on Game Over: C*ncer, special guest Jim Knight shares his insights on the power of integrating charitable initiatives into your organization's DNA. Join hosts Val Solomon and Dana Nichols as they dive deep into the topics of leadership, employee engagement, and the impact of collective efforts in supporting worthy causes. Jim Knight, an expert in organizational culture, shares his experiences working with Hard Rock International and how it inspired him to incorporate philanthropy into ...
Aug 20, 2024•32 min
Join hosts Dana Nichols and Val Solomon in this inspiring episode of the Game Over: C*ncer podcast as they sit down with Kylie Briggs, the new Special Events Manager at Cannonball Kids’ cancer Foundation (CKc). Kylie shares her incredible journey from dedicated volunteer to leading key events for the pediatric cancer nonprofit. Discover what motivated Kylie to shift her career to the nonprofit sector, the challenges and rewards of working with pediatric cancer families, and gain behind-the-scene...
Aug 06, 2024•28 min
Melissa Wiggins, co-founder of Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation, (CKc) joins us to discuss her journey from combating the harsh realities of childhood cancer to fostering a vibrant community dedicated to making a difference. Learn how Melissa's personal experience with her son's cancer diagnosis fueled her relentless drive to bring change to pediatric cancer treatment. Discover how CKc balances hard work with a fun culture, emphasizing the importance of engagement and community support. Hear a...
Jul 23, 2024•31 min
Rachel Pierce, is a compassionate and dedicated advocate, is well-known for her work behind the scenes at events and charities that aim to create a safe and supportive atmosphere. Balancing her role as a mom, she found her calling in helping children battling cancer and young adults aging out of foster care. Her journey with fostering and her work with organizations like Cannonball Kids' cancer and Faine House highlight her unwavering commitment to making a difference. Listeners will hear about ...
Jul 09, 2024•32 min
In this episode, we explore the challenges and triumphs of advancing cancer treatments with the distinguished Dr. Tanja Gruber. Learn about the intricate decision-making process behind grant funding and the critical role of a volunteer scientific advisory board in ensuring scientific rigor and impactful research. Hear Dr. Gruber's inspiring journey through groundbreaking clinical trials and the development of innovative treatment options for infants with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Discover th...
Jun 25, 2024•42 min
Are you ready to be moved by an incredible story of resilience, dedication, and hope? Dive into a heartfelt conversation with Bob Szafranski, a construction industry veteran whose journey is as inspiring as it is impactful. Bob, who tragically lost his daughter Sarah to cancer over 20 years ago, has since dedicated his life to honoring her legacy by successfully raising over a million dollars for pediatric cancer research. This episode sheds light on the humble beginnings and extraordinary growt...
Jun 25, 2024•30 min
Game Over: c*ncer" is an inspiring podcast exploring pediatric cancer research, solutions, and family stories. In this pilot episode, Valerie Solomon, Director of Program Impact, and Dana Nichols, Executive Director of Cannonball Kids’ cancer Foundation (CKc), introduce the mission and the importance of innovative treatments for children fighting cancer. Val and Dana share why they started this podcast, creating a space for hopeful yet difficult conversations about pediatric cancer. Learn about ...
Jun 25, 2024•16 min
