For nearly three decades, Dr. James C. Wittig has cared for children and families facing the unimaginable challenges of pediatric cancer. Known for his pioneering work in orthopedic oncology and limb-sparing surgery, Dr. Wittig has consistently recognized that healing extends far beyond the walls of hospitals and operating rooms. That vision has now taken shape in the form of the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of New Jersey (PCFNJ), officially launched on September 4, 2025.
The mission of PCFNJ is clear: to provide comprehensive support for children diagnosed with cancer and their families, while also advancing research and education for the next generation of physicians. From wellness and mental health services to creative arts programs, to financial and research grants, the foundation is designed to meet the wide-ranging needs that arise when a child is diagnosed with cancer.
Reflecting on the launch, Dr. Wittig said, “It has been a tremendous honor to provide care for thousands of children in our area who were at risk of losing limbs and lives. I saw firsthand the challenges they faced after receiving the devastating news of a cancer diagnosis. True healing goes well beyond hospitals and operating rooms, and done with love and compassion, can support the entire journey for the child and their parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, and communities.”
PCFNJ is more than a new nonprofit; it is a continuation of Dr. Wittig’s lifelong dedication to serving children and families. “I chose to focus my time and resources during the first six-month sabbatical of my career to finally build this Foundation, which was conceived many years ago,” he shared. “We’ve been blessed with an incredible team of colleagues, friends, family, volunteers, and corporate supporters as we begin this exciting journey.”
The foundation is supported by an experienced leadership team. Cynthia Artin has been named Executive Director, bringing nearly three decades of nonprofit experience with her. “It is the honor of a lifetime to contribute my time and experience to Dr. Wittig’s initiative,” Artin said. “He brings a very upbeat, positive vibe to the Foundation, creativity and inclusion, generosity and determination.”
The Family Ambassador role is held by Arlene Kleinsorge, a co-founder whom Dr. Wittig has personally treated. Her perspective reflects the compassion at the heart of PCFNJ. “I have seen firsthand what it means to receive a cancer diagnosis, and to be cured through the highest quality treatments delivered by experienced, compassionate teams led by physicians of Dr. Wittig’s caliber,” Kleinsorge shared. “As a grandmother of seven, I am honored and excited to help identify and onboard children in New Jersey and their families, bringing them into the fold, identifying their needs, and coordinating activities, care, and comfort based on their needs and dreams.”
Board members and advisors are also coming together to build the foundation’s long-term vision, with Dr. Altagracia Miranda noting, “Dr. Wittig’s vision for holistic healing is powerful, and with the help of the board, the advisory board, committees, sponsors, volunteers, and donors, we will develop programs that matter, research that matters, and compassion that makes how we deliver God’s love to our little warriors positive, gentle, and joyful.”
Looking forward, PCFNJ aims to grow into a lasting source of healing and innovation. By supporting families today and funding research for tomorrow, the foundation is poised to make a lasting difference in the way pediatric cancer is treated and understood, not only in New Jersey but eventually far beyond.
Through the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of New Jersey, Dr. Wittig has extended his mission to heal, teach, and inspire. The foundation will stand as a beacon of hope for families and future generations, ensuring that children facing cancer receive not only medical treatment but also compassion, strength, and the chance to thrive.
Learn more and register for updates at: https://www.pediatriccancerfoundationnj.org/
