Cancer 2025: Uniting for a Cure
In 2025, Stand Up to Cancer (SU2C) continues to lead the charge in the global fight against cancer, bringing together scientists, celebrities, and communities to accelerate groundbreaking research and save lives. Founded in 2008 by a group of media and entertainment leaders, SU2C has raised over $800 million to fund collaborative cancer research, resulting in significant breakthroughs for breast, colorectal, lung, melanoma, pancreatic, pediatric, and prostate cancers. The organization’s mission is clear: to make every cancer curable and ensure survivors live without fear of recurrence. By fostering collaboration among top researchers and institutions, SU2C is transforming the way cancer is detected, treated, and prevented, with a bold goal to reduce cancer deaths by 25% in five years and 50% in ten years.
The 2025 campaign is marked by a renewed sense of urgency and innovation. SU2C’s biennial telecast, set to air on August 15 from Nashville, Tennessee, will feature legendary artists like Dolly Parton, Sheryl Crow, Jelly Roll, the Jonas Brothers, and CeCe Winans. This star-studded event is not just a fundraising spectacle but a platform to highlight the real-world impact of SU2C-funded research. Viewers will hear from leading researchers about recent advances in early detection and cancer treatment, as well as powerful stories from survivors whose lives have been transformed by these breakthroughs. The event will also emphasize the growing potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate progress in cancer research, from predictive modeling to precision therapies. By uniting entertainment and science, SU2C is making cancer research accessible and engaging for a global audience.
SU2C’s approach to cancer research is rooted in collaboration and innovation. The organization funds multidisciplinary “Dream Teams” that bring together scientists from different institutions to tackle the most pressing challenges in cancer research. These teams are focused on accelerating the development of new therapies, improving early detection methods, and ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments. For example, SU2C’s investment in AI-driven early detection technologies is revolutionizing how cancers are identified and treated, allowing for earlier intervention and better patient outcomes. The organization’s commitment to transparency and accountability ensures that every dollar donated directly supports research that can save lives.
Beyond research, SU2C is deeply invested in raising public awareness about the importance of cancer screenings and preventive care. Through partnerships with Major League Baseball, social media campaigns, and educational initiatives, SU2C encourages individuals to take proactive steps in their health. The organization’s #Up2Us to #StandUpToCancer campaign, running throughout August 2025, brings together creators from platforms like Twitch, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube to amplify the message that everyone has a role to play in the fight against cancer. By leveraging the power of storytelling and community engagement, SU2C is inspiring millions to stand up and make a difference.
The 2025 Telecast: A Night of Hope and Innovation
The ninth biennial Stand Up to Cancer telecast, airing on August 15, 2025, promises to be a landmark event in the organization’s history. For the first time, the telecast will be broadcast from Nashville, Tennessee, a city known for its vibrant music scene and strong sense of community. The event will take place at The Pinnacle, a premier venue in the heart of Music City, and will feature performances by some of the biggest names in country, pop, and gospel music. Sheryl Crow, a longtime SU2C supporter and cancer survivor, will host the evening, which will also include appearances by Dolly Parton, the Jonas Brothers, Jelly Roll, Dan + Shay, and CeCe Winans. These artists are not only lending their talents to raise funds but also sharing personal stories of how cancer has touched their lives, creating a powerful connection with viewers.
The telecast is more than just a fundraising event; it is a celebration of the progress made in cancer research and a call to action for continued support. Viewers will hear from SU2C-funded researchers about the latest advancements in early detection, precision medicine, and AI-driven therapies. For example, researchers will discuss how AI is being used to analyze vast amounts of data to identify cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. The event will also feature stories from cancer survivors who have benefited from SU2C-funded treatments, highlighting the tangible impact of donor contributions. By showcasing these successes, the telecast aims to inspire hope and encourage viewers to contribute to the cause, whether through donations, advocacy, or participation in clinical trials.
One of the most compelling aspects of the telecast is its focus on the human stories behind the science. Survivors and families affected by cancer will share their journeys, offering a reminder of the urgent need for continued research and support. These stories are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the life-changing impact of SU2C’s work. For instance, viewers will meet patients who have benefited from groundbreaking therapies developed through SU2C-funded research, such as targeted treatments for breast and pancreatic cancer. The telecast will also highlight the organization’s commitment to equity in cancer care, ensuring that all patients, regardless of background or location, have access to the latest advancements in treatment.
The telecast will be broadcast live on major networks, including NBC, and will be available for streaming on multiple digital platforms, ensuring broad and flexible access for viewers around the world. This year’s event is expected to raise millions of dollars for cancer research, building on the success of previous telecasts that have collectively raised over $100 million in a single evening. The funds raised will directly support SU2C’s collaborative research programs, which are designed to bring new therapies to patients as quickly as possible. By tuning in, viewers can be part of a global movement that is accelerating the pace of cancer research and bringing hope to millions of families affected by the disease.
Collaborative Research: The Heart of SU2C’s Mission
At the core of Stand Up to Cancer’s mission is a commitment to collaborative research, a model that has proven to be a game-changer in the fight against cancer. Unlike traditional research funding, which often operates in silos, SU2C brings together scientists from different disciplines and institutions to work on shared goals. This approach fosters innovation and accelerates the translation of scientific discoveries into real-world treatments. Since its inception, SU2C has funded over 3,100 researchers across more than 210 institutions, resulting in 11+ scientific breakthroughs, including FDA-approved treatments for breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers. These achievements are a testament to the power of collaboration and the organization’s ability to drive meaningful progress in cancer research.
One of the most exciting areas of SU2C’s research is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize cancer detection and treatment. AI-driven technologies are enabling researchers to analyze complex data sets and identify patterns that can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. For example, SU2C-funded projects are developing predictive modeling programs that use AI to detect cancers at their earliest stages, when they are most treatable. Additionally, AI is being used to design therapeutic cancer vaccines and precision therapies that help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. These advancements are not only improving patient outcomes but also reducing the need for invasive treatments, offering a more hopeful future for cancer patients.
SU2C’s research initiatives also include a strong focus on early detection, which is critical to reducing cancer mortality rates. The organization is investing in the development of simple, non-invasive screening tests that can detect the smallest molecular signatures of cancer. These tests have the potential to revolutionize cancer care by enabling earlier intervention and improving survival rates. For instance, SU2C-funded researchers are working on early-stage detection technologies for gastric cancer, the third-leading cause of cancer death worldwide. By catching cancer earlier, these technologies can save lives and reduce the burden of treatment on patients and their families.
The organization’s commitment to equity in cancer care is another cornerstone of its mission. SU2C recognizes that disparities in access to care and treatment outcomes persist, particularly among underserved communities. To address this, the organization funds research that aims to make cutting-edge treatments and screenings available to all patients, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location. For example, SU2C’s Convergence Grants bring together physical and computational scientists with oncologists to ask fundamental questions about cancer biology, producing insights that can be rapidly applied to benefit patients. By prioritizing equity, SU2C is ensuring that the benefits of cancer research are shared by everyone, everywhere.
Fundraising and Community Engagement
Stand Up to Cancer’s success is driven by the generosity and engagement of its supporters, who contribute through donations, fundraising events, and advocacy efforts. The organization offers a variety of ways for individuals and corporations to get involved, from one-time donations to ongoing fundraising campaigns. For example, SU2C’s partnership with American Airlines allows customers to donate miles to the cause, while the organization’s telecast merchandise and gift card programs provide additional avenues for support. These initiatives not only raise critical funds for research but also raise awareness about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.
One of the most impactful ways to support SU2C is through the #Up2Us to #StandUpToCancer campaign, which runs throughout August 2025. This month-long initiative brings together creators from across social media platforms to share their personal connections to cancer and encourage their audiences to donate. Participants include influencers, celebrities, and everyday individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the fight against cancer. The campaign’s message is simple: everyone has a role to play, and collective action can accelerate scientific breakthroughs. By leveraging the reach of social media, SU2C is able to engage a global audience and inspire millions to contribute to the cause.
Corporate partnerships are another vital component of SU2C’s fundraising strategy. Companies like American Airlines, Mastercard, and Major League Baseball have joined forces with SU2C to support its mission through sponsorships, employee giving programs, and public awareness campaigns. For example, American Airlines customers can donate AAdvantage miles to SU2C, with the airline matching contributions to maximize impact. These partnerships not only provide financial support but also help amplify SU2C’s message to a broader audience. By working together, corporations and SU2C are able to drive meaningful change and bring the fight against cancer to the forefront of public consciousness.
SU2C also offers a variety of ways for individuals to fundraise on their own, whether through personal campaigns, memorial donations, or participation in community events. The organization’s website provides tools and resources to help supporters create their own fundraising pages, making it easy to rally friends and family around the cause. For example, individuals can start a campaign to celebrate a birthday, honor a loved one, or simply because they want to make a difference. These grassroots efforts are a powerful reminder that everyone can contribute to the fight against cancer, no matter how big or small their contribution may be.
Patient Stories: The Human Face of Cancer Research
At the heart of Stand Up to Cancer’s mission are the stories of patients and survivors whose lives have been transformed by the organization’s research. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the real-world impact of SU2C’s work and the urgent need for continued support. For example, Kellie and Yaphet Smith, a couple who met in high school, have become advocates for multiple myeloma research after Yaphet’s diagnosis. Thanks to SU2C-funded treatments, Yaphet’s cancer is now manageable, and the couple is dedicated to raising awareness and funds to ensure that others have access to the same life-saving therapies. Their story is just one of many that highlight the importance of research in turning cancer from a death sentence into a manageable condition.
Another inspiring story is that of Jedd Feliciano, who was diagnosed with cancer at just 14 years old. Despite the challenges of his treatment, Jedd remained determined to beat the disease and now advocates for other young patients. His story underscores the importance of early detection and access to cutting-edge treatments, which can make all the difference in a patient’s outcome. SU2C’s focus on pediatric cancer research is particularly critical, as children like Jedd deserve every opportunity to live long, healthy lives. By sharing these stories, SU2C is putting a human face on cancer research and reminding the public of the lives that are saved through their support.
Emily’s story is another example of the hope that SU2C brings to cancer patients. As a childhood cancer survivor, Emily is now dedicated to ensuring that no child has to endure the same hardships she faced. She advocates for increased funding for pediatric cancer research and better access to treatments for all children. Stories like Emily’s highlight the long-term impact of cancer on survivors and the importance of ongoing research to improve quality of life. SU2C’s commitment to supporting survivors and their families is a key part of its mission, as the organization works to ensure that cancer patients not only survive but thrive.
The power of these patient stories lies in their ability to inspire action. By sharing their journeys, survivors and their families are helping to break down the stigma surrounding cancer and encouraging others to get involved in the fight. Whether through donations, advocacy, or participation in clinical trials, everyone can play a role in advancing cancer research. SU2C’s patient stories are a testament to the organization’s impact and a call to action for continued support. Together, we can stand up to cancer and create a future where no one has to face the disease alone.
Key Initiatives and Breakthroughs in 2025
Stand Up to Cancer’s 2025 initiatives are focused on accelerating progress in cancer research through a series of innovative programs and partnerships. Below are some of the key initiatives driving the organization’s mission forward:
- Dream Teams: SU2C’s Dream Teams bring together top researchers from different institutions to collaborate on groundbreaking cancer research. These teams are focused on developing new therapies and improving patient outcomes through multidisciplinary approaches. For example, the Breast Cancer Dream Team has made significant strides in developing targeted treatments that have extended the lives of thousands of patients. By fostering collaboration, SU2C is able to accelerate the pace of discovery and bring new treatments to patients faster.
- AI-Driven Early Detection: SU2C is investing in AI technologies to revolutionize cancer detection. These tools can analyze vast amounts of data to identify cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. For instance, AI-driven predictive modeling programs are being used to detect gastric cancer, one of the deadliest forms of the disease. By catching cancer earlier, these technologies can save lives and reduce the need for invasive treatments.
- Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines: SU2C-funded research is focused on developing vaccines that can train the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. These vaccines have the potential to prevent cancer recurrence and improve long-term survival rates. For example, researchers are working on a vaccine for pancreatic cancer, which has historically been difficult to treat. This innovative approach could transform the way we think about cancer prevention and treatment.
- Convergence Grants: These grants bring together physical and computational scientists with oncologists to tackle fundamental questions about cancer biology. By combining expertise from different fields, these grants produce insights that can be rapidly applied to benefit patients. For example, a Convergence Grant-funded project is exploring how AI can be used to analyze tumor biology and develop personalized treatment plans.
- Clinical Trials: SU2C is committed to expanding access to clinical trials, which are critical for testing new treatments and improving patient outcomes. The organization funds trials that focus on underserved populations, ensuring that all patients have access to the latest advancements in cancer care. For example, SU2C-supported trials are testing new therapies for rare and aggressive cancers, offering hope to patients who have few treatment options.
- Equity in Cancer Care: SU2C is dedicated to ensuring that all patients, regardless of background or location, have access to the best possible cancer care. The organization funds research that addresses disparities in cancer treatment and outcomes, with a focus on reaching underserved communities. For example, SU2C is working to expand access to early detection and treatment in rural and low-income areas, where cancer mortality rates are often higher.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: SU2C uses its platform to educate the public about the importance of cancer screenings, prevention, and early detection. Through partnerships with media outlets, sports leagues, and social media influencers, the organization is able to reach millions of people with life-saving information. For example, the #Up2Us to #StandUpToCancer campaign encourages individuals to take proactive steps in their health and support cancer research.
- Corporate Partnerships: SU2C collaborates with corporations to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. These partnerships include sponsorships, employee giving programs, and public awareness campaigns that help amplify SU2C’s message. For example, American Airlines customers can donate miles to SU2C, with the airline matching contributions to maximize impact. These partnerships are essential for sustaining the organization’s research efforts and expanding its reach.
These initiatives are a testament to Stand Up to Cancer’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and equity in cancer research. By focusing on the most promising areas of science and leveraging the power of community engagement, SU2C is driving progress that will save lives and improve outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.
How You Can Get Involved
Stand Up to Cancer offers numerous ways for individuals and organizations to contribute to the fight against cancer. Whether through donations, fundraising, advocacy, or participation in events, everyone can play a role in advancing cancer research. One of the simplest ways to support SU2C is by making a donation, which directly funds groundbreaking research and clinical trials. Donations can be made online, and supporters can choose to contribute in honor of a loved one or as part of a personal fundraising campaign. Every dollar makes a difference, and SU2C ensures that contributions are used efficiently to maximize impact.
Fundraising is another powerful way to support SU2C’s mission. The organization provides tools and resources to help individuals and groups create their own fundraising campaigns, whether for a birthday, in memory of a loved one, or simply to make a difference. For example, supporters can organize a community event, launch a social media fundraiser, or participate in a sponsored challenge. These efforts not only raise critical funds but also help spread awareness about the importance of cancer research. By engaging their networks, fundraisers can inspire others to join the fight and amplify the impact of their contributions.
Corporate partnerships and workplace giving programs are also vital to SU2C’s success. Companies can support the organization through sponsorships, employee matching programs, and cause-related marketing campaigns. For example, American Airlines customers can donate miles to SU2C, with the airline matching contributions to double the impact. These partnerships help SU2C reach a broader audience and provide sustainable funding for its research initiatives. By aligning with SU2C, corporations can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.
Finally, advocacy and awareness are key components of SU2C’s mission. Supporters can help by sharing information about cancer prevention, early detection, and the importance of clinical trials. Participating in events like the biennial telecast, sharing patient stories on social media, and encouraging others to get involved are all ways to contribute to the cause. By raising awareness, advocates can help ensure that more people have access to life-saving screenings and treatments. Together, we can stand up to cancer and create a future where the disease is no longer a threat to our loved ones.
Stand Up to Cancer’s Impact by the Numbers
The table below highlights Stand Up to Cancer’s impact since its founding, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to advancing cancer research and improving patient outcomes:
| Metric | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Researchers Funded | Over 3,100 researchers from more than 210 institutions have received funding from SU2C. These researchers represent a diverse range of disciplines, from oncology to computational biology, and are working collaboratively to accelerate progress in cancer research. | By bringing together top scientists, SU2C is fostering innovation and driving breakthroughs that are saving lives. The organization’s collaborative model has led to the development of new therapies and improved treatment options for patients worldwide. |
| Clinical Trials | SU2C has supported over 280 clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. These trials are focused on a wide range of cancers, including breast, lung, pancreatic, and pediatric cancers, and are designed to test new approaches to prevention, detection, and treatment. | Clinical trials are critical for advancing cancer research and improving patient outcomes. SU2C’s trials have led to the development of new treatments that are extending and saving lives, offering hope to patients and their families. |
| Funds Raised | Since its inception, SU2C has raised over $800 million to fund cancer research. These funds have supported a wide range of initiatives, from early detection technologies to therapeutic vaccines, and have enabled the organization to make significant strides in the fight against cancer. | The funds raised by SU2C are directly responsible for advancing cancer research and bringing new treatments to patients. The organization’s commitment to transparency ensures that donations are used efficiently to maximize impact. |
| Patient Stories | SU2C has shared the stories of thousands of cancer survivors and their families, highlighting the real-world impact of its research. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of continued support for cancer research and the difference it makes in the lives of patients. | By sharing patient stories, SU2C is putting a human face on cancer research and inspiring others to get involved. These stories are a testament to the organization’s impact and a call to action for continued support. |
These numbers reflect Stand Up to Cancer’s unwavering commitment to advancing cancer research and improving the lives of patients and their families. By supporting SU2C, individuals and organizations can contribute to a future where cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease, and survivors can live without fear of recurrence. Together, we can stand up to cancer and make a difference in the fight against this devastating disease.
