Children’s Minnesota is proud to share that Anne Bendel, MD, pediatric neuro-oncologist in the cancer and blood disorders program, has been named the 2026 Leary Legacy Award recipient by the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF). The award honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on the lives of children and families affected by pediatric brain and spinal cord tumors.
For more than 30 years, Dr. Bendel has dedicated her career to advancing care, research and hope for children facing brain and spinal cord tumors. As director of pediatric neuro-oncology research at Children’s Minnesota, she has played a key role in expanding access to innovative clinical trials and emerging therapies, while providing compassionate, family-centered care to patients and families at every stage of their journey.
Dr. Bendel’s partnership with the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation has helped connect families to critical support services and meaningful community experiences. She was instrumental in creating CBTF family dinners and hospital-based discussion groups, offering families opportunities to connect, share and feel less alone during some of their most challenging moments.
“Dr. Bendel’s leadership and compassion have shaped care for generations of children and families,” said Stacia Wagner, MSW, president of CBTF. “Her commitment goes beyond medicine, creating spaces of connection, understanding and hope.”
Dr. Bendel will be formally honored with the Leary Legacy Award at the Dream Makers Gala in New York City in October 2026.
