Record-Breaking Participation and Donations for “Running Against cancer”

The annual “Running Against Cancer” virtual charity event has once again exceeded expectations, setting new benchmarks for both participation and fundraising. This year’s event saw nearly 40,000 participants, spanning all age groups, come together to raise a remarkable €160,109.

A Flexible Format for a Worthy Cause

The beauty of “Running Against Cancer” lies in its accessibility. Participants are free to run at their convenience, choosing their preferred time and distance. This inclusive format allows individuals from all walks of life to contribute to a vital cause: supporting cancer aid and stem cell donation initiatives through the Red cross.

The main event drew 4,800 athletes who tackled distances ranging from 2.5 to 21 kilometers. In addition, the “schulchallenge” engaged a staggering 34,000 children across Austria, demonstrating the widespread commitment to fighting cancer.

Donations Directly Benefit Local Communities

Funds raised through “Running Against Cancer” are strategically allocated to cancer aid organizations within the participants’ respective regions. This ensures that the impact is felt directly within local communities.The €160,109 raised this year will substantially bolster the efforts of Lower Austrian Cancer Aid, supporting crucial initiatives such as preventative care, early detection programs, and comprehensive support services for cancer patients and their families.

Furthermore, a portion of the donations will be directed towards stem cell donation, a life-saving procedure that offers hope to countless individuals battling blood cancers and other life-threatening diseases. It’s important to note that each stem cell typing costs the Red Cross €40, highlighting the notable impact of these donations.

Schoolchildren Make a Significant Contribution

This year, the participation of 34,000 children from 300 schools and kindergartens throughout Austria played a pivotal role in the fundraising success. From April 22nd to May 2nd, these young athletes dedicated their time and energy to running for a worthy cause. An extraordinary 28,922 students and 4,728 kindergarten children actively participated, with BRG Wels Wallerstrasse from Upper Austria leading the charge with 753 participants.

Red Cross Expresses Gratitude

The Austrian Red Cross has expressed profound gratitude for events like “Running Against Cancer,” emphasizing their critical role in supporting essential services. Such initiatives are not financed by the health system. We are therefore dependent on donations and sponsors and are very grateful to Christian Kohl and his team, explained Gabriele Zapfe-Weissenbacher from the Red Cross.

The Growing Need for Cancer Support

The funds raised by “Running Against Cancer” are especially vital in the face of rising cancer rates. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be an estimated 2.0 million new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States alone in 2024. This highlights the urgent need for continued investment in cancer research, prevention, and support services worldwide.

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide,accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020.

World Health Institution