Westwood residents stepped up to support cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, with approximately 25 individuals from the town participating in the 2026 Jimmy Fund Walk. The event, which took place on Sunday, October 4, along the Boston Marathon course, saw over 9,400 walkers in total. Among the Westwood participants were Diana Bezdedeanu, Lisa Fireman, Cara Szczebak, Tara Travers-Araque, and Janice Russell.
For Diana Bezdedeanu, this year marked her first in-person participation after initially joining the walk virtually six years ago. Diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin lymphoma in August 2025, Ms. Bezdedeanu shared her personal connection to Dana-Farber. “I didn’t really understand how great Dana-Farber was until receiving care there,” she stated. She highlighted the institute’s Young Adult Program, where she found understanding and formed lasting friendships with others facing similar challenges. Ms. Bezdedeanu expressed her commitment to supporting these vital services.
Cara Szczebak, another Westwood resident, was motivated to walk by her 6-year-old nephew, Tyler, who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. She conveyed her appreciation for the medical and emotional support her family has received, emphasizing the “programs that make an impossible journey just a little bit easier for children like Ty and their families.”
The 2026 Jimmy Fund Walk is on track to meet its fundraising goal of $10 million. This follows the previous year’s walk, which achieved a historic milestone by raising over $11.2 million. Over the event’s 38-year history, more than $200 million has been raised for cancer care and research.
“Each year, the Walk brings our community together in a powerful way,” said Jessica Abbott, assistant vice president of the Jimmy Fund. “For more than three decades, this event has been a celebration of hope, where every step helps fuel breakthroughs, support patients, and inspire progress.” Spectators cheered on the walkers, who were also inspired by the “Heroes” featured along the course, adult and pediatric patients who serve as partners in the walk.
The Jimmy Fund Walk for Dana-Farber has a long-standing tradition of community involvement and fundraising for critical cancer research and patient care. The event’s success over nearly four decades underscores the consistent support from participants and donors alike, contributing significantly to advancements in cancer treatment and the well-being of patients and their families. The funds raised directly support Dana-Farber’s mission to provide leading-edge cancer care and pursue innovative research aimed at discovering cures.
The continued participation of residents like those from Westwood demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting the ongoing fight against cancer. The event serves not only as a fundraising mechanism but also as a powerful symbol of community solidarity and hope for those affected by the disease. The organization plans to continue these efforts annually.
