Community Unites to Raise Funds for Breast Cancer Research, Patient Support Services, and Life-Saving Advocacy Efforts in 2026
Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, is set to bring together survivors, patients, families and advocates for the 2026 Chicago Race for the Cure. Taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Montrose Harbor, the event will serve as a powerful demonstration of community strength and a major fundraiser supporting lifesaving research, patient services and public policy initiatives aimed at ending breast cancer forever.
The Chicago Race for the Cure has long been one of the city’s most anticipated spring events, uniting thousands of participants who walk or run not only in celebration of survivorship but also in remembrance of loved ones lost to the disease. In 2026, Komen aims to raise more than $500,000 through the event — funds that are critical to advancing the organization’s mission across Illinois and throughout the United States.
A Community United for a Lifesaving Mission
The Race for the Cure is more than a fundraiser; it is a day of solidarity and hope. Breast cancer survivors, individuals living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), caregivers and supporters gather to share stories, honor milestones and reinforce the importance of continued investment in research and patient care. For many participants, the event represents a deeply personal commitment to ensuring that future generations face a world with fewer diagnoses and more effective treatments.
The funds generated at the Chicago Race for the Cure directly support Komen’s comprehensive approach to fighting breast cancer. This includes investing in groundbreaking research designed to improve early detection, develop innovative therapies and extend lives. Research remains a cornerstone of Komen’s work, helping to drive medical advances that allow patients to live longer and experience better outcomes.
Supporting Patients Every Step of the Way
Beyond research, proceeds from the Chicago Race for the Cure help sustain Komen’s Patient Care Center, a trusted, go-to resource for individuals seeking accurate breast health and breast cancer information. The Patient Care Center connects patients and families with financial assistance, treatment navigation, emotional support and educational resources tailored to their needs.
In fiscal year 2025 alone, Komen provided assistance to more than 1,200 patients in Illinois. This included over $237,000 in direct financial assistance to individuals undergoing active treatment or living with metastatic breast cancer. Such support can help cover essential expenses like transportation to treatment appointments, childcare during medical visits, lodging for those traveling long distances and other daily costs that can become overwhelming during a cancer journey.
The Chicago event also helps fund the organization’s Center for Public Policy, which advocates at both the state and federal levels. Komen works to ensure patients have streamlined access to affordable, high-quality breast health care, and to promote policies that expand coverage for screening, diagnosis and treatment. By influencing legislation and public health programs, Komen seeks to reduce disparities and make lifesaving care accessible to all.
Why the Race Matters Now More Than Ever
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers in the United States. It affects 1 in 8 women and approximately 1 in 1,000 men during their lifetimes. In 2026 alone, an estimated 321,910 women in the U.S. are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 42,140 women will lose their lives to the disease. Additionally, approximately 2,670 men will be diagnosed, and 530 will die from breast cancer this year.
While significant progress has been made in early detection and treatment, experts estimate that one-third of breast cancer deaths in the U.S. could potentially be prevented with universal access to modern therapies and high-quality care. Persistent disparities in outcomes highlight the urgent need for continued research investment and policy reform.
In Illinois specifically, more than 12,300 individuals are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and over 1,350 people are projected to die from the disease. These sobering statistics underscore the importance of local events like the Chicago Race for the Cure, which directly impact patients and families within the community.
Leadership and Community Commitment
“The work Komen does for people with breast cancer, survivors and those with increased risk of breast cancer is not possible without the Chicago Race for the Cure and the critical funding we raise from our generous supporters,” said Jaclyn Groves, executive director Chicago at Susan G. Komen. “We look forward to bringing together the Chicago community this spring and uniting around our goal of creating a world where we do not lose another life to this disease.”
Groves emphasized that every participant, donor and volunteer plays a vital role in helping Komen fulfill its promise to patients. The Race for the Cure stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities rally around a shared mission.
Strong Support from Sponsors and Partners
The 2026 Chicago Race for the Cure is made possible through the generous support of local and national sponsors. Chicago-area sponsors include Mi Costeñita, Rivers Casino, Illinois Ford Dealers, Illinois Department of Health, City of Hope, Somavac, Yoga Design Lab and F.H. Paschen.
At the national level, Bank of America serves as the presenting sponsor, with Natera as the national premier sponsor. Guardant Health, Novartis and Lilly are national series sponsors for the MORE THAN PINK Walk and Race for the Cure events. Their partnerships help ensure that Komen can maximize the impact of funds raised and continue expanding its reach.
Event Details
The 2026 Komen Chicago Race for the Cure will be held on:
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Location: Montrose Harbor – 601 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Registration: www.komen.org/chicagorace
Participants are encouraged to register early, form teams and begin fundraising efforts in advance of race day. Whether walking, running, volunteering or donating, individuals can contribute to a movement dedicated to ending breast cancer.
A Legacy of Promise and Progress
Founded by Nancy G. Brinker in honor of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer, the organization was built on a promise to end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life. That promise continues to guide Komen’s work today. With an unmatched 360-degree approach, the organization addresses breast cancer through research funding, patient advocacy, public policy initiatives and direct support services.
Over the decades, Komen has supported millions of people in the United States and around the world. By empowering patients with trustworthy information, advocating for equitable access to care and driving scientific breakthroughs, the organization continues to push toward a future free from breast cancer.
Join the Movement
The 2026 Chicago Race for the Cure invites the community to stand together in the fight against breast cancer. Every step taken at Montrose Harbor represents hope. Every dollar raised fuels research and patient support. Every voice raised strengthens advocacy efforts.
As spring arrives in Chicago, the Race for the Cure will once again transform the lakefront into a sea of determination and compassion. Together, participants will honor survivors, remember loved ones and commit to building a future where no one loses their life to breast cancer.
By joining the movement on May 16, 2026, individuals can help create lasting change — proving that when a community unites with purpose, progress is not only possible, it is inevitable.