More than 3,000 participants united at UC San Diego in August 2025 for the Curebound Cancer Challenge, raising an impressive $4 million to support vital cancer research. The event featured a variety of activities including cycling, running, walking, and spinning, all aimed at promoting community involvement in the fight against cancer. Attendees included cancer patients, survivors, families, and researchers, all sharing a common goal: to accelerate the search for effective cancer treatments.
The funds generated from this event, along with support from donors and previous fundraising efforts such as the Elton John concert at Petco Park in May, have allowed Curebound to contribute over $43 million since its inception. This financial backing has facilitated 143 study grants focusing on 23 different types of cancer. Looking ahead, Curebound plans to invest an additional $8 to $10 million in early-stage research, reflecting the ongoing need for substantial funding in the cancer research sector.
Curebound’s Chief Science Advisor, Ezra Cohen, MD, emphasized the urgency of continued investment in cancer research. “There are effective cancer therapies available today that didn’t exist a year ago—real breakthroughs that are saving lives right now,” he stated. He urged that the progress made could be even greater if investments in promising early-stage studies continue, especially considering recent federal funding cuts that threaten many critical research initiatives.
The funding strategy implemented by Curebound has been instrumental in fostering innovative studies, securing patents, launching clinical trials, and forming partnerships. This strategy has solidified San Diego’s position as a leading hub for cancer research. The six institutions benefiting from the Challenge funds include the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, the Salk Institute, Sanford Burnham Prebys, the La Jolla Institute for Immunology, Rady Children’s Health, and Scripps Research.
The August event enjoyed strong support from various local corporations and institutions, including Edward Jones, Janux Therapeutics, Vividion Therapeutics, JP Morgan, Pfizer, and others. Their involvement underscores the community’s commitment to advancing cancer research and treatment.
Anne Marbarger, CEO of Curebound, remarked on the significant turnout, highlighting the power of San Diego’s community. “The remarkable show of support from the San Diego community at Curebound’s Cancer Challenge will continue to fuel the groundbreaking work being done right here in our region,” she said. “Every dollar raised drives innovative research and moves us closer to a world without cancer.”
For further information about Curebound or details regarding the 2026 Cancer Challenge, interested parties can visit their official website.
