Transformational Gift to Advance Pediatric Cancer Care at Connecticut Children’s

Hartford, CT—Connecticut Children’s, the state’s only healthcare system dedicated exclusively to the care of children, announced a transformational gift from Joel and Wendy Johnson to the Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders. The gift will expand access to lifesaving clinical trials and help ease the financial burdens families face during a child’s cancer journey. In recognition of this extraordinary generosity, Connecticut Children’s fifth floor waiting area will be named The Joel and Wendy Johnson Reception Area.

Connecticut Children’s Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders has experienced record growth in new patient visits, consultations, and outpatient procedures—alongside an increase in successful outcomes. With access to more than 100 clinical trials, young patients at Connecticut Children’s benefit from the latest advancements in pediatric oncology research. 

“Clinical trials are where breakthroughs happen,” said Jim Shmerling, Connecticut Children’s President and CEO. “Every new standard of care in pediatric oncology starts in a clinical trial, and philanthropy makes these trials possible. This generous gift will help ensure that no child is left behind when it comes to access to innovative treatments.”

A child with cancer is one of the most harrowing experiences a family can endure, both emotionally and financially. A child’s multiple, lengthy hospital stays for cancer treatment often mean parents must take unpaid leave or leave a job entirely, creating financial crises on top of emotional stress. Financial assistance funds, such as those gifted by the Johnsons, help keep the lights on, food on the table, and families in their homes during the most difficult time of their lives. 

 

“I was raised by two parents who dedicated their lives to helping those who are less fortunate. Through their example, Wendy and I—as well as my company Johnson Brunetti—try to live out that example. This is one way we can invest in the future of our community that has been such a blessing to us,” said Joel Johnson, CFP, co-founder and managing partner of Johnson Brunetti, an independent retirement and investment specialty firm. Residents of Tolland, Connecticut, Joel and Wendy actively support charitable organizations throughout the northeast and around the world.

“One of the hardest things we have to do is tell a parent their child has cancer,” said Michael Isakoff, Connecticut Children’s Interim Physician-in-Chief and Division Head, Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders. “Every year, we have that heartbreaking conversation with more than one hundred families. Joel and Wendy’s remarkable new gift will ensure that children in our communities have access to the most advanced cancer treatments available anywhere, while also giving families the support they need to weather the storm of a cancer diagnosis.”

Johnson Brunetti is the title sponsor of this year’s Connecticut Children’s Foundation Gala. Since its founding in 2003, Johnson Brunetti has helped more than 7,000 families navigate the retirement planning process through personalized investment management, comprehensive financial planning, and retirement income strategies. With offices across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the greater Atlanta area, the firm is committed to making a positive impact on the community through company-wide volunteer activities that engage every employee.
 

About Connecticut Children’s
Connecticut Children’s is the only health system in Connecticut 100% dedicated to kids. That means high-quality care across more than 30 pediatric specialties in 30+ locations throughout Connecticut, Eastern New York and Western Massachusetts. One team on a mission to improve access to healthcare from before birth and into adulthood. One team pushing the limits with breakthrough research and community partnerships so we can help you focus on what matters most: your family’s wellness journey. When you choose Connecticut Children’s, you can expect care Beyond Imagination.  

Connecticut Children’s is a not-for-profit organization with a mission to improve access to health care for all children.