Hero Program
The Hero Program is the heart of the Jimmy Fund Walk! Jimmy Fund Walk Heroes are Dana-Farber Cancer Institute patients who volunteer to share their stories and inspire walkers to walk and raise critical funds for cancer research and patient care.
If you are interested in being a 2025 Jimmy Fund Walk Hero or Hero Match Team, please email us.
Meet the 2024 Jimmy Fund Walk Heroes
Alan
Read Alan's Quote
"I walk to connect with other patients and to raise money for patient care and research. Playing 'the long game' for more than four years since my diagnosis, I’m living proof of how that research and care makes a difference. Dana-Farber has given me additional time and increased hope for improved treatments until a cure is found."
Allan
Read Allan's Quote
"I am here today because of Dana-Farber. That's why my wife and I volunteer. It's our way of saying thank you and paying it forward in some small way."
Anne
Read Anne's Quote
"This organization has been able to deliver innovative cancer treatments to improve and extend my life. Seeing my daughter enter elementary school was something I could never have dreamed of, but with Dana-Farber and Jimmy Fund, it is possible!"
Ava
Read Ava's Quote
"In the most unlucky of situations, we are the luckiest to be cared for by Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund Clinic. Ava has had more procedures and treatments in two years than many of us will in our lifetimes. She faces it with such strength and resilience, and in doing so, reminds us on a daily basis that, with the right attitude, we can all do difficult things."
Ayden
Read Ayden's Quote
"Ayden is a happy, cheerful boy with a contagious laugh. He has a great sense of humor, he’s adventurous, and he loves sports and video games—Mario is his favorite! At the Jimmy Fund Clinic, Ayden loves music therapy, playing with the toys, and interacting with other children. The Jimmy Fund Clinic is a place of healing and optimism. It’s where some of the sickest children go for treatment and the staff always show patience and compassion."
Ben
Read Ben's Quote
"I love the Jimmy Fund Clinic. Everyone there is really fun and nice and they take good care of me."
Benny
Read Benny's Quote
"Benny loves his dinos and getting the 'zoomies,' which he still gets thanks to the Jimmy Fund Clinic with their early and aggressive treatment for our baby. We wouldn't trade anything for our team or our care! Not only do they treat cancers like what Benny has, but there is also continuous research on new treatments."
Billy
Read Billy's Quote
"I am Billy John 'Deere' and I know all about machines and trucks—I get to see lots of them on my trips to the Jimmy Fund Clinic. When I visit, I love to wear my favorite Jayson Tatum shoes and my dinosaur suit. I like to help the nurses, play with other kids, and sing funny songs, and I love when my brother comes with me. Everyone at the Jimmy Fund Clinic makes me feel like a special kid."
Bob
Read Bob's Quote
"I am so pleased with the compassion and care I have received from Dana-Farber. I want to support them in any way I can, and I am grateful for the all that they do."
Calista
Read Calista's Quote
"Dana-Faber and the Jimmy Fund means feeling safe and happy. Calista loves clinic days when she gets to spend time with new friends and craft while waiting for treatment. Calista loves to cook, enjoys the arts, and loves animals. She also loves playing goalie for her hockey team. Calista aspires to help people and animals when she grows up. She would love to own a puppy day care one day."
Colin
Read Colin's Quote
"Colin's love for cars, garbage trucks, and snacks runs deep. He and his stuffed rabbit, Harry, have quickly shared this love with everyone they meet at the Jimmy Fund Clinic."
Cora
Read Cora's Quote
"I like cupcakes, rainbows, and unicorns. I love to swim and play with my big sister, Ella. My favorite part of the Jimmy Fund Clinic is the Resource Room."
Dee
Read Dee's Quote
"After being given what felt like a death sentence, I’ve overcome the odds thanks to my oncology team at Dana-Farber and the incredible team at the Zakim Center. They supported my well-being physically and mentally, and as a result, I’m here, over a decade later, having made countless memories with my grandkids who may otherwise not have known me. Gratitude doesn’t cover it. It’s love. They gave me hope and healing and did so with love."
Edrian
Read Edrian's Quote
"I was just starting college when cancer uprooted my life. The Jimmy Fund has made it possible to have a positive and encouraging medical journey!"
Emelie
Read Emelie's Quote
"As parents, Dana-Farber means hope, support, and a second family. For Emme, she loves seeing all of the smiling faces and the new Jimmy Fund Clinic decorations and endless crafts and art projects."
Gary
Read Gary's Quote
"Participating in the Jimmy Fund Walk is a good way to take steps to defeat cancer."
Grace
Read Grace's Quote
"I love laughing, rainbows, sparkles, French fries, and pasta! The Jimmy Fund Clinic is such a special place to me and has made me want to be a nurse when I’m older!"
Hanna
Read Hanna's Quote
"I am a chef. I have three beautiful children—Penny, Tony, and Lou—an adorable rescue dog, Hendrix, and an incredible husband, Mike. Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund is such an amazing support team for everything related to Lynch Syndrome. I am very lucky to have joined their team."
Jack
Read Jack's Quote
"Jack is a kind, smart, athletic, brave, and adventurous 10-year-old! Our team at the Jimmy Fund Clinic is absolutely phenomenal. Over the last three years, everyone has gone out of their way to make Jack feel comfortable and at ease. They've become like family. While our home is in upstate New York, Boston will always hold a special place in our hearts, as it’s the place where Jack got a second chance at life. Jack is so excited to continue enjoying life: going to school, playing sports, traveling, and spending time with friends and family!"
Jackson
Read Jackson's Quote
"Jackson is a 4-year-old who loves cars and trucks and playing with his identical twin, Henry. His favorite part of the Jimmy Fund Clinic is the staff who are very welcoming, and doing all the holiday crafts."
James
Read James' Quote
"As a member of the James' Gang Jimmy Fund Walk team, this will be my 20th year as a walker. The Jimmy Fund provides research and hope to all that want and need it. I cannot say enough about the professionals and staffers who are part of this amazing organization. To me, it has always been about the children, and to have a life without cancer. I believe that one day, with our help, it will happen."
Jeremy
Read Jeremy's Quote
"To me, Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund means hope, security, and conscientious people. In my spare time, I like hanging out with my husband and watching movies, shows, or series. We are both foodies and love trying new places."
Justyna
Read Justyna's Quote
"Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund is my life preserver in the rough seas of cancer. Although I’m on long-term disability now from my airline job as a pilot, I’m grateful for simply being alive and present for my husband, daughter, parents and friends ... being able to still golf is satisfying, too! At Dana-Farber, I’m Justyna first and a cancer patient second. While my team works hard, I do my best to stay positive and laser-focused on the future and beating glioblastoma. I AM JIMMY!"
Karen
Read Karen's Quote
"God has given me the faith to remain positive, and Dana-Farber and my doctor, Dr. James Stoeckle, have given me life. Dana-Farber, you're the best!!!"
Karin
Read Karin's Quote
"With deepest respect and gratitude for my entire care team at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies, the loving support of David, family, friends, sister warriors—YOU each fuel my healing journey!
Come what may
Walk the journey
With a trusted tribe
Joy in your heart
Always
Kelly
Read Kelly's Quote
"My true heroes are my doctors and nurses at Dana-Farber. They gave me my life back forever, and I am grateful to them! Go, Team Neuro!"
Ken
Read Ken's Quote
"I have found Dana-Farber to be my lifeline to maintaining my health and continuing to live my life. With Dana-Farber behind me, I'm able to hike, bike, ski, travel, and play pickleball!"
Leilani
Read Leilani's Quote
"Leilani is the world's happiest baby. She loves to laugh, dance, and play with her parents and grandparents. Her family is profoundly grateful for the incredible care and support of the entire team at Dana-Farber's Jimmy Fund Clinic."
Liam M.
Read Liam's Quote
"I am a very energetic little boy that loves to run and play. My favorite characters are Mickey Mouse, Paw Patrol, and Sesame Street."
Liam P.
Read Liam's Quote
"Meet Liam, a courageous 6-year-old boy who loves telling jokes that make everyone laugh. Despite battling leukemia, Liam’s laughter and positivity brighten the lives of those around him. He shows us that bravery comes in many forms. As you walk to support cancer, keep Liam in your heart. Your steps today bring hope for a future where every child like Liam can enjoy a healthy, joyful life.
Liam’s Joke of the Day:
'Why did the bear bring a flashlight when he went for a walk? Because it was bear-y dark outside!'"
Lily
Read Lily's Quote
"I am a first grader who loves playing soccer, jumping on the trampoline, and playing with my two dogs, Patch and Isabel. I have an older brother, Liam, who I sometimes get along with. Having cancer has been really hard but it hasn't slowed me down! I am most excited about being done with treatment in a few months. I love doing crafts at the Jimmy Fund Clinic. Everyone there is really nice."
Linda
Read Linda's Quote
"I’m grateful for the funds raised by the Jimmy Fund Walk to support research at Dana-Farber. I am benefiting from new therapies as a result of research by Dr. Matalonis and others."
Lindsey
Read Lindsey's Quote
"The Jimmy Fund Clinic has been my home away from home since I was 7—I am turning 30 this year. It helped save my life when I was diagnosed with childhood leukemia not once but twice. The Jimmy Fund is one of the biggest reasons I am still here today. Without donations, I may not have lived past my first diagnosis, never would have graduated college top of my class, entered law school, became a dog mom, or married my soulmate. As a survivor, I will do everything I can to help others. I walk in memory of those we’ve lost, in honor of those still fighting, and for those like me who have lived to tell their battle stories! There is no end until we find a cure, and no one has to hear 'you have cancer' EVER AGAIN!"
Mark Leahy
Read Mark's Quote
"After many years of participating in the Jimmy Fund Walk, I found myself as a patient. When I received my diagnosis, there was never a doubt about where I'd go for treatment. Dana-Farber is simply the best. The physicians and staff made me feel welcome, cared for, and at peace. THANK YOU!"
Mark Lewis
Read Mark's Quote
"Be good to people! People will always remember how you made them feel. Enjoy the small things in life. Take the trip and eat the cake. Most importantly, tell the people closest to you that you love them!"
Michaela
Read Michaela's Quote
"The Jimmy Fund Clinic has always been welcoming and accommodating for Michaela and her family through an impossible time. But thanks to them, she is able to enjoy being a vibrant 2 year old today! Michaela loves music, reading, trying new foods, watching hockey, and playing with her twin brother. Small but mighty!"
Michele
Read Michele's Quote
"I am 58 years old and have been blessed with an amazing husband of 28 years and two extraordinary sons. I am also a sister, a daughter, an aunt, and have many beautiful friends in my life. When faced with an unimaginable diagnosis, Dana-Farber helped me to create a new 'normal' in my life that is filled with world-class care options, support at every level, and an abundance of hope!"
Olivia E.
Read Olivia's Quote
"The Jimmy Fund Clinic has been our second family for the last eleven months. The doctors, nurses, and child life specialists always go above and beyond to make Liv feel loved and supported. We still have a long road ahead but we are grateful for Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund and what they are doing for her. Our spidey girl is still able to laugh, smile, and play with her favorite Hot Wheels cars like a normal 4-year-old should. Liv tells me she can't wait to grow up and be a super hero just like Spider-Man. Little does she know ... she already is a super hero."
Olivia P.
Read Olivia's Quote
"Never give in to your fears because they don't know your strength. When life gives you something that makes you feel afraid, that's when life gives you a chance to be brave."
Owen
Read Owen's Quote
"Owen is a 4-year-old boy who loves Star Wars and playing ninja turtles. He also enjoys playing mini hockey with his brother and twin sister!"
Paige
Read Paige's Quote
"You got this!"
Raegan
Read Raegan's Quote
"Raegan is 4 years old and loves princesses, dancing, and gymnastics. Most of all, she loves her big brother, Tyler, and the cousin crew! Keep on walking because as Raegan always says, 'We got this dude!'"
Raelynn
Read Raelynn's Quote
"Raelynn is always happy and enjoying life. She loves music and stroller/wagon rides. She is one of the sweetest little girls around!"
Ramie
Read Ramie's Quote
"Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund make cancer treatment the way it should be. The kids look forward to coming and seeing all their friends (the nurses)."
Sarah
Read Sarah's Quote
"I never expected to be diagnosed with cancer, especially at my age. Although cancer has taken so much from me, I can’t ignore the lifesaving treatment I received from Dana-Farber and Brigham and Women's Hospital. My fantastic medical team guided me safely through treatment and post treatment care with a level of compassion I had never experienced before. I am forever grateful for my oncologists, specialists, family and friends for helping me survive cancer. They are my heroes!"
Sienna
Read Sienna's Quote
"The Jimmy Fund Clinic has helped Sienna feel safe and able to still have fun throughout her journey. Sienna loves to dress up and pretend. She is also not afraid to cut loose and have a dance party at any time."
Sophia
Read Sophia's Quote
"Though she be but little, she is FIERCE!"
Teagan
Read Teagan's Quote
"I am fortunate, not only for the treatment from the Jimmy Fund Clinic, but for all of the other opportunities and friendships that I have made during my time there."
Violet
Read Violet's Quote
"Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund are the best! I love playing in the playroom and seeing Lisa and my friends."
Warren
Read Warren's Quote
"Hi, I'm Warren and I'm 2! I love going to the Jimmy Fund Clinic and cooking in the kitchen or playing with the trucks and cars. My doctors and nurses are so nice and they take great care of me. My mom and dad (and the rest of my family) are so grateful for everything that my team at Dana-Farber has done for me!"
Wolfie
Read Wolfie's Quote
"'They should know I like Legos® and Nerf guns.' Wolfie has been gaining in strength and spirit over the past year. The Jimmy Fund Clinic makes this awful experience a lot more manageable and fun for not just Wolfie, but also his sister."
