Bulwark Takes Pediatric Cancer Bill is Good News That Still Hurts
Dec 6, 2025
Sam Stein shares the inspiring story of Mikaela Naylon, a 16-year-old cancer patient who lobbied Congress for a vital pediatric cancer research bill, the Give Kids a Chance Act. Despite legislative hurdles and setbacks, her advocacy sparked renewed hope for the bill's passage. The podcast delves into the challenges hindering pediatric cancer research, highlights exciting momentum from recent House votes, and emphasizes the emotional impact of Michaela's journey and message of hope. With key lawmakers rallying behind the cause, there’s cautious optimism for future progress.
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Teen Lobbyist Spent Final Days Pushing Bill
- Michaela Nalen, a 16-year-old with osteosarcoma, spent her last weeks lobbying Congress for the Give Kids a Chance Act.
- She asked her parents to let her spend her final days advocating for better pediatric cancer research and treatment access.
Regulatory Fixes Can Spur Pediatric Research
- The Give Kids a Chance Act would loosen FDA rules to spur pediatric combination-drug research by compelling studies.
- Small-market pediatric cancers get little private investment, so regulatory changes can drive more trials and treatments.
Senate Procedures Can Kill Popular Bills
- Procedural Senate hurdles — like holds requiring 60 hours of debate — can block broadly supported measures.
- A single senator's objection (e.g., Rand Paul) derailed the bill when time was tight, showing session timing matters.