The Tropical Storm and the bad weather failed to hinder the 26th annual Jen’s Friends Climb Against Cancer. The event took place on Saturday, September 16 at Cranmore Mountain Resort in North Conway. Like every year, this year the event was a resounding success.

Started on October 17 in the year 1998 by a group of UNH alumni the climb has since been breaking records in fundraising. However, this success has been marked by accomplishing a victory of surpassing the goal.

Unity and celebration come together

In the Mount Washington Valley, Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation has been the supporting pillar for underprivileged families during their fight against cancer. This foundation offers financial assistance by alleviating indirect financial burdens. Funds raised through this event are directly handed over to the patients fighting cancer and to their immediate families.  

In spite of bad weather, the participants exhibited their unwavering solidarity in the fight against the deadly disease with a monumental attendance. The 500 participants were transported safely to the spot with the help of a Skimobile Express quad chairlift. Like every year, the Jeanne Limmer’s Dance Studio amused the participants with their appealing stage performances. Besides, the Mango Groove through delightful steel drum music brought post-hike celebrations to perfection.

The Vice President of the Foundation, Joann Daley expressed his delight about the turnout to The Conway Daily Sun, “I could not believe it. We were almost at the goal before the start of the climb with online donations.”

A legacy of compassion continues

Jen’s Friends is an all-volunteer organization, named in honor of the patient, Jen Hill, who her life to cancer. As informed by board member Wendy Holmes, presently 93 patients and families are under the support of the foundation. The monthly allotment of $40,000 takes care of essential living expenses and food cards. 

Based on the massive turnover this year, it was expected that the fundraising result would be satisfactory. However, it surpassed all expectations when after tallying the checks the revised estimated funds raised exceeded $145,000. While the counting was still going on and additional donations were still incoming, the total raised value was expected to exceed $150,000.

Read More: Elite Mountain Climber-Thieves Scale 8,000-ft Swiss Alps to Rob Collection Box

In all these years the notable personalities and teams collaborated to make the fundraising event a grand success. Among the teams, Team Kelly raised more than $10,000 while among the individual fundraisers, Nicholas Mazzaglia topped the list with $5767.  

Since its inception, Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation has raised over $4 million out of which $2 million was contributed by the Climb Against Cancer. The consistent performance by the foundation organizing the event every year showcases the organization’s generosity while serving the community.

WATCH THIS STORY | 32-Year-Old Renowned Mountain Guide Dies in Solo Climb at Donner Summit