15 Childhood Cancer Survivors to Inspire at Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026
The Tata Mumbai Marathon, recognized as one of the world's top 10 marathons, will witness a powerful display of resilience this Sunday, January 18. Fifteen childhood cancer survivors, with an average age of 22 years, will participate in the event. They come from various parts of India, bringing a message of hope to those still battling the disease.
CanKids Marks 16th Consecutive Year of Participation
CanKids, a leading organization in childhood cancer care, joins the marathon for the sixteenth year in a row. The group includes survivors, the CanKids leadership team, corporate partners, and dedicated volunteers. These participants will run across different categories, showcasing their strength and determination.
One notable participant is Vikash, a survivor of retinoblastoma. He lost an eye after undergoing multiple surgeries. Vikash traveled through several states before receiving life-saving treatment in Mumbai. Today, with support from CanKids, he works at the CanKids Mumbai CanShala. There, he helps children continue their education during their cancer treatment.
Dream Placards and Hope Tiles Wall to Feature in the Marathon
TMM 2026 will include a moving visual tribute organized by CanKids. Runners will carry Dream Placards that display photographs of children along with their dreams. These dreams range from becoming a doctor, astronaut, singer, teacher, to soldier. The placards will create a running gallery of aspirations, visible to all spectators.
At the CanKids zone, a Hope Tiles Wall will stand as a striking mosaic. Made from dream-infused tiles, it serves as a powerful reminder of the marathon's purpose. Partner runners will also unfurl a large Hope Tiles Banner. This banner symbolizes a collective commitment to giving every child with cancer a chance to dream again.
Leadership and Vision Behind the Initiative
The CanKids leadership team will actively participate throughout the marathon build-up and on race day. Poonam Bagai, founder and chairperson of CanKids and a cancer survivor herself, shared the organization's vision. She stated, "Our mission is to close the gap between treatment, education, and the State by building an integrated cure and care model for every child with cancer in India. The Tata Mumbai Marathon strengthens this journey by giving us a national platform where survivors lead the way and remind us that hope is stronger than fear."
Goals for Childhood Cancer Awareness and Care
Through TMM 2026, CanKids aims to achieve several key objectives. The organization seeks to enhance national awareness about childhood cancer. It promotes early diagnosis and expands access to care across India. Additionally, CanKids supports a holistic model that includes treatment, nutrition, education, counselling, palliative care, and survivor empowerment.
The participation of these 15 survivors not only highlights their personal triumphs but also underscores the ongoing need for support and resources in the fight against childhood cancer. Their presence at the marathon inspires countless others and brings critical attention to this important cause.
