In 2015, Jessica Heath, M.D., at Duke University School of Medicine received her first research grant from Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research. That early support allowed her to explore how leukemia begins, focusing on the role of a protein called CRM1, which normally helps cells function but in leukemia can drive cancer growth. The funding gave her the freedom to ask bold questions about the origins and spread of the disease.
After completing her fellowship, Dr. Heath moved to the University of Vermont, where she now leads her own laboratory. Her team studies a rare leukemia caused by a genetic error known as a CALM-AF10 translocation, where two genes swap parts and create a faulty gene that fuels cancer. Her research has shown that this translocation alters the location of key proteins inside leukemia cells, influencing how the cancer behaves. Most recently, her team examined CXCR4, a protein that helps leukemia cells move. While blocking CXCR4 did not kill the cells, it slowed their movement, which is significant because cell positioning in the bone marrow affects how well chemotherapy works.
Beyond her scientific contributions, Rally’s early investment helped Dr. Heath grow into a leader. She now serves as Vice Chair for Research in Pediatrics and Associate Director of Clinical and Translational Research at the University of Vermont Cancer Center. She has trained numerous students who are continuing cancer research, extending the impact of her work.
Her story illustrates the importance of early-stage research funding. By believing in young investigators, Rally enabled new ideas to take root, supported the growth of a promising scientist into a leader, and contributed to advances that bring hope to children with cancer. This is the power of philanthropic seed investing and the mission Rally continues to champion.
