Fifty years on, this mandate has not changed, it has only expanded as Ireland establishes itself as an international hub of excellence and innovation in pediatric medicine.

One of the benefits of supporting research in Ireland is the potential these findings can provide to clinicians not only in Ireland, but across the world.

With a limited gene pool and with very little genetic variation, this fact alone places Ireland in a unique position to carry out research on the root cause of childhood disease.

Over the last 40 years, donors in the United States have contributed in excess of $10 million in grants to aid some of our sickest children. The close-knit partnerships forged demonstrates the power of committed people and organizations working together to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This year we celebrate this journey to a better world for pediatric healthcare and invite you to continue the generosity you have shown to date.