Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

A Childhood Cancer Fundraiser by Joan Park

On October 9, 2024, I’ll arrive in Tanzania to begin my climb of Mount Kilimanjaro in solidarity with all children fighting cancer.

(Please note: Rockefeller employees who are wishing to donate should use this link to receive matching donations.)

After experiencing a cancer scare in high school myself with a growth in my c-spine, I understand the pricelessness and fragility of life and to make every moment count. Since then, I’ve donated my hair several times to organizations like Wigs for Kids and Locks of Love, as well as volunteered for similar organizations because my life goal is to have as much of a positive impact as possible during my short time on Earth.

After every Arms Wide Open event we attend, I leave feeling inspired by the stories and courageousness of the kids and their families, as well as our community that rallies around them.

This year, I’ll be on the side of a mountain and unfortunately missing Shave for a Cure but will be there in spirit by instead dedicating the climb up Kilimanjaro to the AWOCCF kids. It’s so important to bring more awareness around rising cancer rates and funding the all-so-important research and support necessary to kick cancer’s butt!