In the fall of 1999, just weeks after she began experiencing headaches, eight-year-old Carly Collard-Cottone was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Just three days later, surgeons removed her tumor, and she soon began radiation treatment at Roswell Park.
Cancer was already a part of Carly’s story. She had lost both of her biological parents, Tony and Judie Cottone, to cancer before her seventh birthday. Yet through every challenge, Carly’s spirit remained remarkably bright. She dreamed of attending a Backstreet Boys concert, becoming an interior decorator and making the most of every day.
Chuck Collard tells the story of how Courage of Carly, then Carly’s Club, was created.
Throughout her treatment, Carly was deeply touched by the kindness and support she received from family, friends and her community. She wanted other children facing cancer to experience that same sense of love and encouragement.
So, while she was still in treatment, Carly created what was originally known as Carly’s Club. With the support of her adoptive parents, Chuck and Carole Ann Collard, her dream of helping other children became a reality.
Carly passed away in August 2002, but her compassion, generosity and courage continue to inspire children and families every day through the Courage of Carly Fund.
Today, Courage of Carly is dedicated to supporting children receiving care through Roswell Park’s Katherine, Anne and Donna Gioia Pediatric Hematology Oncology Center — advancing groundbreaking childhood cancer research while creating meaningful moments of joy, comfort and connection for patients and their families.
Every gift to the Courage of Carly Fund helps continue the mission Carly began more than two decades ago — to ensure children facing cancer and blood disorders receive not only the most advanced care possible, but also the support, encouragement and unforgettable moments that help them simply be kids.