On Sunday morning, 17 November 2024, over 5,000 runners, volunteers, and supporters gathered at Singapore’s Marina Barrage for Run For Hope 2024. In opposition to the backdrop of a rising solar and an unwavering sense of objective, members launched into the 5km and 10km routes—not for medals, however for one thing far higher: the hope for a future free from most cancers.
A Legacy of Compassion and Collaboration
Since its inception in 1993 by 4 Seasons Lodge Singapore, and thru its ongoing partnership with the Nationwide Most cancers Centre Singapore (NCCS) since 2008, Run For Hope has change into a beacon of solidarity in Singapore’s working calendar. Although the run is non-competitive, its influence has been profound. Through the years, it has raised greater than SGD 1.9 million to advance most cancers analysis, enhancing prognosis, remedy, and affected person care.
This yr alone, Run For Hope 2024 has already raised SGD 190,000—a testomony to the dedication of the neighborhood. From particular person members to company sponsors, the collective effort displays a shared mission: to push the boundaries of medical science and produce hope to these affected by most cancers.
Past Working: Tales That Encourage
For a lot of, Run For Hope is deeply private. It’s a possibility to honour family members affected by most cancers and to face in solidarity with these nonetheless preventing the illness. The tales of braveness and compassion shared through the occasion spotlight the human influence behind the statistics.
Take Paula O’Callaghan, for example—a breast most cancers survivor who prolonged her help to her home helpers throughout their most cancers battles, offering insurance coverage and attending radiotherapy classes with them. Her dedication embodies the spirit of the occasion, displaying that care and empathy transcend private struggles.
Equally, 18-year-old Jansen Jing’s story is a poignant reminder of how the youthful technology is stepping as much as make a distinction. Within the lead-up to Run For Hope, Jansen ran 500 kilometres solo throughout Japan to lift over $20,000 for most cancers analysis—all whereas juggling his last yr of faculty. His journey underscores how acts of willpower, regardless of how small, can ripple into vital change.
A Collective Tribute to Braveness
One of the crucial shifting parts of this yr’s run was the “Bibs of Bravery” wall, the place members devoted their race bibs to family members or private heroes. Every bib pinned to the wall carried a narrative, a reputation, or a reminiscence, creating a strong visible tribute to the lives touched by most cancers.
Prof Lim Quickly Thye, CEO of NCCS, emphasised the importance of those efforts:
Most of us have had a cherished one who has been affected by most cancers. Each step taken at Run For Hope helps the tireless work of NCCS docs and researchers who’re enhancing most cancers care and giving hope to all who’re identified with this illness.
Occasions like Run For Hope reveal the profound influence of community-driven initiatives. Past the funds raised, they spotlight the position of collective motion in fostering hope and advancing medical analysis.
As Mr John Wu, Regional Director of Engineering at 4 Seasons Lodge Singapore and Chairman of Run For Hope, aptly put it,
Each effort, regardless of how small, contributes to a bigger mission. Collectively, we’re fostering hope and paving the way in which for developments in most cancers care that may change lives.
Transferring Ahead: How You Can Assist
The struggle towards most cancers doesn’t finish with the end line. Contributions to Run For Hope stay open till 31 December 2024, offering a possibility for much more people to help this important trigger. Whether or not via financial donations or spreading consciousness, each effort provides a brick to the trail towards a cancer-free future.
Most cancers impacts tens of millions worldwide, but occasions like Run For Hope remind us of humanity’s collective power and willpower. By uniting for a typical trigger, we not solely increase funds but additionally nurture hope—a strong drive that propels progress and ignites change.
