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Thank you!

Thank you for your support of this year's UMass Cancer Walk. Although severe weather prevented us from gathering in person, our community's commitment to advancing cancer research never wavered. 

Together, through the generosity of our participants, donors, volunteers and sponsors, we raised more than $500,000 to support groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials at UMass Chan Medical School.

Watch Chancellor David McManus and UMass Cancer Walk supporters share their gratitude, personal stories and the reasons they continue to champion cancer research at UMass Chan.

Keep the spirit of the UMass Cancer Walk alive

While we were unable to come together in person this year, we encourage you to honor the spirit of the UMass Cancer Walk by choosing a day to take a walk of your own. Whether it’s around your neighborhood, at a local park, with family and friends, or on your own, you’ll be carrying forward a tradition that unites our community in support of cancer research. 

If you participate, we’d love to see your photos! Please:

  • Tag the UMass Cancer Walk social media accounts
  • Tell us who you’re walking for
  • Use #UMassCancerWalk

Your stories

  • Debra Paciello

    Gratitude for exceptional care, close to home

    Inspired by the pivotal research at UMass Chan Medical School driving breakthroughs in cancer treatment—and by the excellent cancer care she’s received close to home—Shrewsbury resident Debra Paciello is an enthusiastic, longtime supporter of the UMass Cancer Walk.  

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  • Four people posing in front of a sign that says Polar Park and UMass Cancer Walk.

    For 15 years, Team Smile … There’s Hope! has turned personal experiences into support for cancer research

    Superheroes of the UMass Cancer Walk, team Smile ... There's Hope!, has raised more than $80,000 for cancer research and clinical trials at UMass Chan Medical School since 2009. The team’s fearless leader, Elaine Urban of Grafton, is a longtime childcare provider who believes deeply in giving back to her community. 

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  • Four people standing in front of the United Kingdom flag.

    Stage 4 cancer survivor Phil Berube highlights impact of cancer research

    Nearly four years ago, Phil Berube received life-changing news: He had Stage 4 prostate cancer that had spread to the bones throughout his spine and neck. Thanks to transformative advances in cancer treatment, what could have been a devastating prognosis instead offered possibility for healing and renewal.

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