After 30 Years in Pediatric Oncology, Dr. Ron Louie Still Believes
in the Power of Collaborative Research
Dr. Ron Louie, Former COG member and retired pediatric oncologist
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For decades, Dr. Ron Louie served as a physician, researcher, educator, and member of the Children's Oncology Group (COG), helping advance pediatric oncology through patient care, clinical trials, and collaborative research. He has seen firsthand what sustained, collaborative research can make possible for children with cancer.
Now retired from clinical practice, he continues to support COG’s work as a donor. PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. LOUIE
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After more than 30 years in pediatric oncology, Dr. Ron Louie understands what sustained, collaborative research makes possible.
He worked with colleagues across COG's global network to improve patient care, contribute to clinical trials, and support research aimed at discovering cures. “We knew we were participating in something important,” he reflected.
Now, he continues to support COG’s work, knowing what progress takes. Every breakthrough in pediatric oncology is built on decades of research and the resources to power it. “Even good ideas need to be proven. That takes time and organized research,” Dr. Louie explained.
Why Collaboration Matters
Pediatric cancer is rare, so no single institution can study it comprehensively. “In collaboratives like COG, colleagues from around the world band together to study and treat these diseases collectively,” Dr. Louie said. That partnership saves lives. “If I thought somebody else could care for my patient better, with a proven or new trial we couldn’t provide, I would send them,” said Dr. Louie.
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Progress Built Over Decades Today, remarkable progress has been made in treating many childhood cancers. “There have been miraculous advances in certain cancers,” said Dr. Louie. “I helped take care of my first patient decades ago. During that time, overall survival in some childhood cancers has more than doubled." COG’s growing network drives breakthroughs in pediatric oncology by connecting researchers, data, and patient populations—progress made possible through sustained funding. But in cancers where survival remains low, progress really depends on continued support. |
"At the core, we're getting somewhere. That, to me, is optimistic." |
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Funding Remains Critical “I was shocked to hear the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium lost funding,” said Dr. Louie. “I took care of a number of kids with brain tumors, and I remember them vividly. It's the first or second most common solid tumor in children, and progress has been slow. From my own lab and clinical trials experience, I know how hard it is to uncover the tiniest fact or discovery that might help a child,” he shared. “That’s a big part of why I want to give.” Even with these challenges, Dr. Louie remains optimistic about the progress still ahead. "From the perspective of my 30-year career, I know intimately the kind of research COG is doing. It has the greatest potential to impact kids with cancer here and now.” |
A Message to Future Supporters
Dr. Louie encourages others who hope to make a difference. “At the core, we are getting somewhere,” he said. “I am donating to get things done. Even now, in retirement, I know I can still help make a difference. I know donations to COG will have an impact in a needed area and change the story for these children.”