This Sunday, October 2nd, 2025, fifteen residents from Jamaica Plain will join a massive wave of participants in the annual Jimmy Fund Walk, a vital event dedicated to raising $9.5 million for cancer research and treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. This annual walk, a cornerstone of cancer fundraising, brings together a broad community united by a common goal: to defy cancer and support those affected by it.
The Jimmy Fund Walk: A Legacy of Hope and Progress
The Jimmy Fund Walk, now a major event in the fight against cancer, has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1989. It is the only event other than the Boston Marathon itself to utilize the iconic course, offering various distance options from a 5K to a full marathon, as well as a virtual participation choice for those who prefer to walk in their own communities. Over its 30-plus year history, the walk has raised over $185 million for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a leading institution in cancer care and research. This significant funding has been instrumental in advancing groundbreaking scientific discoveries and providing compassionate patient care for adults and children alike.
Last year, the Jimmy Fund Walk saw over 8,400 participants raise a record-breaking $9.4 million, building on decades of dedicated fundraising efforts. The event is known for its atmosphere of hope, unity, and inspiration, with walkers drawing strength from each other and from the stories of “Jimmy Fund Walk Heroes”—patients whose photographs and quotes are displayed along the course.
Jamaica Plain’s Enduring Commitment to the Cause
The participation of fifteen residents from Jamaica Plain underscores the strong community spirit within the neighborhood and its consistent dedication to supporting important causes. This is not the first time Jamaica Plain has shown robust engagement with the Jimmy Fund Walk; in previous years, groups of ten or thirteen residents from the area have proudly joined the ranks of walkers. Among the notable participants this year are Suzanne Blackley, Emily Boyko, John Munson, Sunny Rosenthal, Lindsay Klosterkemper, Jared Kennedy, Geetha Iyer, Rachel Zelinka, Audrey Thompson, and Hadley Bloomhardt, representing the collective effort of their neighbors.
This recurring participation highlights a deep-seated commitment within Jamaica Plain to contribute to cancer research and patient support. The neighborhood’s involvement serves as a powerful reminder of how local communities can make a substantial impact on global health initiatives. The news of their participation is a testament to their generosity and willingness to support vital medical advancements.
Fueling Breakthroughs at Dana-Farber
The funds raised through the Jimmy Fund Walk are critical for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s mission to prevent, treat, and defy cancer. This includes supporting all forms of adult and pediatric cancer research, clinical trials, and patient care services. Dana-Farber is recognized globally for its pioneering work in cancer, and the consistent support from events like the Jimmy Fund Walk enables its scientists and clinicians to pursue innovative treatments and provide comprehensive, personalized care to patients battling cancer.
The annual fundraising goal of $9.5 million for the 2025 walk signifies the ongoing need for resources to push the boundaries of cancer science. Every dollar raised contributes to a larger pool of funds that directly impacts the lives of patients and their families, offering them hope, comfort, and the potential for longer, better lives.
A Community United Against Cancer
As the 2025 Jimmy Fund Walk approaches, the dedication of the fifteen Jamaica Plain residents, alongside thousands of other participants nationwide and virtually, exemplifies the power of collective action. Their commitment, born from personal connections to the disease or a broader desire to contribute to a healthier future, fuels the lifesaving work at Dana-Farber. This community news serves as an inspiration, showcasing how individual efforts, when united, can lead to profound progress in the fight against cancer. The success of the Jimmy Fund Walk relies on this spirit of generosity and perseverance, ensuring that the quest for cures and improved treatments continues unabated.