Partner Program

The Partner Program is a cornerstone of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge. The program features both the Patient Partner Program, which pairs runners with children currently being treated at the Jimmy Fund Clinic, and the In-Memory Program, through which team members run in memory of young patients who are forever in our hearts.

Participants of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Partner Program

Program Details and Events

Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Partner Program Match Party icon

MATCH PARTY

Runners get together with their Patient Partners and their families at this funfest featuring bowling and arcade games.

Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Partner Program In-Memory Dinner icon

IN-MEMORY DINNER

An evening to celebrate the lives of young patients no longer with us, the In-Memory Dinner gathers runners and the families of their In-Memory partners.

Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Partner Program Marathon Day icon

MARATHON WEEKEND

Patient Partners, In-Memory families and runners come together to kick off the weekend at the annual Pasta Party. The next day, partners head to Mile 25 in Kenmore Square to cheer on their runners!

Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Partner Program participants

How to Apply

Deepen your connection with our mission and apply to be matched in the Partner Program. Information on the 2024 program and application will be announced to registered team members once available.

PATIENT STORY

"The DFMC Partner Program was an uplifting experience for our family and created a positive distraction for my daughter, Zoey, during a difficult time. We were so fortunate to be partnered with Kristina, who, along with her family and community, showered Zoey with love and support. Zoey would often share ‘I had so much fun today, that for a little while I forgot I had cancer’ after attending DFMC events.

If you are considering applying for this program, think about what the experience might mean to you, but most importantly, what it means to the children going through treatment."

– Dawn, mother of Zoey, a 2023 DFMC Patient Partner

Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Partner Program participants