Nine years old and already a hero: Rowan runs for cancer!

Nine years old and already a hero: Rowan runs for cancer!

On June 7, 2025, the annual Relay for Life event took place at the Northport High School, which is organized by the American Cancer Society (ACS). This event has had a permanent place in the hearts of the communities for 40 years, and for good reason: it celebrates surviving, commemorated relatives and supports those affected by cancer. The ACS pursues the clear goal of ending cancer and giving every person access to prevention, recognition, treatment and survival.

The nine -year -old Rowan Wittenberg from Jacksonville, Florida, was particularly committed on this special occasion. Inspired by his cousin Isabelle Beisler, who took on the role of the President of the Relay for Life team, Rowan ran impressive for 10 hours. With a tireless will and the goal of completing most of the rounds, he stood up to the competition, including the boy's Cross Country team of his school.

tireless use for a good thing

The concept of the "Baton system" that the organizers introduced made ensure that one participant always fell actively on the track. Every team participant placed rubber bands on his broomstock after running four rounds. Rowan was part of a team of five that bravely beat. Despite his injury, when he cut his finger, he held the fighting spirit and ended the event with a last round of honor while using the time to chat with older students about common interests such as Minecraft.

A total of around 35 teams and more than 240 participants took part in the event, which together collected $ 85,000 for cancer research and the support of those affected. This campaign shows once again how important such events are for education and help for cancer patients. The luminariaceremony, which is reminiscent of the deceased, and the honor of the forces that work for other people every day contribute to the uniqueness and importance of this event.

a strong network

The Relay for Life movement offers participants a platform to campaign for a cancer-free future. The ACS characterize more than 100 years of experience in cancer research and more than $ 400 million invested in research grants. The central idea remains to bring people together to collect donations and at the same time to raise awareness of the challenges and the fight against cancer. In 2022 the ACS received support from 141,500 patients and their relatives, which illustrates how valuable these events are to offer help and support.

If you want to learn more about Relay for Life and participate, you will find all the necessary information on the official website of the American Cancer Society. Take part and let us fight against cancer!

The donations for the Rowan Wittenberg team and his fellow campaigners are still welcome and can be provided on the ACS website.