Community partners are essential to the work of the ECU Health Foundation. The impact these partners provide on a daily basis to the patients and families at James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital is life-changing. Pirates Vs. Cancer is just one example of the tremendous efforts and impact made by our community partners.

Pirates Vs. Cancer was founded nine years ago by Trevor Hunt and other students at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. These students weren’t just studying the impact of cancer — they had seen it in their families, their communities and often in their own lives. In response, this dedicated group turned those experiences into action, building a powerful tradition that brings hope to children across eastern North Carolina who are fighting cancer.

In April 2025, Brody students hosted the ninth annual Pirates Vs. Cancer event, bringing their total raised to more than $174,000 in support of pediatric cancer patients at Maynard Children’s Hospital. Every dollar raised goes directly toward improving the lives of pediatric oncology patients all across eastern North Carolina.

Funds raised through Pirates Vs. Cancer have already made a lasting impact. Past donations helped renovate the inpatient playroom — a vital space where children can find comfort and joy during treatment. This bright and innovative area is available for children and teens admitted to the children’s hospital and offers activities for all ages, including video games, imaginative play, arts and crafts and more.

Thanks to Pirates Vs. Cancer and all of of our vital community partners, we can continue to bring big smiles to our smallest patients and further our mission to improve the health and well-being of children across the region.