Rush to Crush Cancer

Run For A Reason

Run for a Reason: Support Rush to Crush Cancer

Make your miles matter. When you participate in the Pittsburgh Marathon weekend through the Run for a Reason Charity Program, you’re not just crossing a finish line—you’re making a powerful difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.

Here’s how to join the movement:

Step 1: Choose Your Race

Whether you’re running the full or half marathon, forming a marathon relay team, tackling the 5K, or walking with your family and pets, every event during marathon weekend is a chance to take action against cancer.

Step 2: Select Rush to Crush Cancer

When registering for your event, choose Rush to Crush Cancer as your charity of choice. Every step you take will help fund groundbreaking cancer research and improve the lives of patients at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

Step 3: Run with Purpose

As part of the Run for a Reason program, your race becomes a fundraiser. You’ll raise critical dollars that go directly toward advancing cancer research and care—your run will truly change lives.

Step 4: Rally Your Network

Tell your story. Share your reason for running. Encourage your friends, family, and coworkers to support your efforts. Together, your impact grows stronger with every donation.

Step 5: Fundraise and Fuel Change

Every dollar raised fuels real progress. Your commitment supports the scientists, doctors, and patients who are pushing toward a world without cancer. This is more than a run—it’s a mission.

Step 6: Earn Your Registration Back

As a thank-you for your dedication, participants who reach a designated fundraising goal (set by the marathon) will receive a refund of their race registration fee. It’s our way of recognizing your impact and celebrating your achievement.

Our Impact So Far

Thanks to our incredible runners and supporters, we’ve made steady strides in the fight against cancer:

2023
  • Number of runners: TBD
  • Amount raised: $3,850.49
2024
  • Number of runners: 47
  • Amount raised: $13,663.08
 2025 (so far)
  • Number of runners: 75
  • Amount raised: $15,993.10



Every step, every story, and every dollar makes a difference. Let’s make 2026 our biggest year yet.