Wecome Kate and Katie
Among CURE’s dedicated staff are eight parents of survivors, two bereaved parents, four siblings, and now, three childhood cancer survivors. This perspective isn’t something we sought out; it’s what naturally happens when people who’ve walked this path find their way to work that honors their journey. Wherever a family is in their childhood cancer experience, someone at CURE has been there too.
This month, we welcome two tremendous additions to our team, both of whom are childhood cancer survivors.
Kate Bellamy was just two years old when she was diagnosed with leukemia. Though she doesn’t remember much from those three years of treatment, childhood cancer shaped her path in profound ways. Growing up, CURE was woven into her life. She was treated by CURE’s founder, Dr. Abdel Ragab, and even appeared on a CURE billboard as a child. The organization that supported her family became a familiar presence, and the medical environment felt like a second home.
That early experience led Kate to pursue a master’s degree in family and child development and spend eight years as a child life specialist. She still remembers a nurse who gave her a party blower during treatment to help her calm down. It was a small gesture that would later become a tool she used to comfort other children in her own career.
Now, Kate is bringing that compassion to an important role. At CURE, she will be at the hospital with the families, providing help and support during their time of greatest need. “Being able to help families in a tangible way during such a difficult time is deeply meaningful to me,” she shared.
Katie Rutherford’s cancer story began during Christmas break of her sophomore year of high school, when a small bump on her chin grew into something that would change everything. A rhabdomyosarcoma diagnosis meant 48 weeks of chemotherapy and 30 days of radiation. She pushed through treatment while keeping up with schoolwork, graduated with her class, and never lost sight of what matters most.
After graduating from Valdosta State University, Katie worked for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and is now starting a new chapter as CURE’s Senior Development Coordinator for Events & Initiatives. In this role, Katie will channel her experience into action for others.
“I’m thrilled to join CURE because the organization champions childhood cancer research while creating real, immediate impact for families today,” she said. “This work makes a difference to so many people, including me and my family.”
Kate and Katie remind us why we do this work: because every child deserves the chance to grow up, find their purpose, and make a difference.
