Emily Progin, PR and Communications Coordinator
[email protected] / 800.642.8399
Release: Immediate
ON MAY 14, HOPEWELL STUDENTS AND ADULTS HOLD 5K TO HELP LOCAL MAN LIVING WITH RARE CANCER
Hopewell Valley Central High and Others Come Together in the Name of Hope
HOPEWELL, N.J.—This Saturday, May 14, members of the Hopewell community of all ages are coming together, both virtually and in-person, for a “Hope Travels 5K” fundraising event to show their support for Kristoffer Kristensen, a local man living with a rare bone cancer and an associated amputation. Participants include Hopewell Valley Central High Schools’ SMAC (Students Moving Against Cancer).
Throughout the day on May 14, kids, students, and adults alike will pledge to walk, run, ride, or roll 3.1 miles. Each registration for the Hope Travels 5K benefits the national nonprofit Help Hope Live in honor of Kristoffer Kristensen. Register online at: https://events.helphopelive.org/event/5602/signup/
Or make a donation at any time before or after the 5K at: https://helphopelive.org/campaign/19679/
Kristoffer was diagnosed with the rare bone cancer chondrosarcoma in September 2020 in his pelvis and hip. The cancer was so severe that doctors advised immediate surgery. Kristoffer had his left pelvis, left hip, and left leg amputated.
“Since that day, my whole life has changed,” Kristoffer explained. He lost most of his mobility and independence, his career, and many of his capabilities as a husband and father—but he held onto hope. “I’m still me…and I’m still here,” he said. “I will become a better person than I was before this happened. I am determined not to give up or give in.”
Kristoffer realized early on that regaining some of his strength, mobility, and capability would require a huge financial commitment, even with insurance. That’s why he turned to the trusted national medical fundraising nonprofit Help Hope Live to start a campaign at https://helphopelive.org/campaign/19679/
In just three months, the campaign has raised over $9,800. Kristoffer is halfway to his $20,000 goal, which will help bring a critical mobility supply within reach: a motorized scooter so he can fully access his home and community. Kristoffer posts frequent updates and videos on his fundraising page of his progress in physical therapy with his prosthetic leg.
Because Kristoffer is working with Help Hope Live for medical fundraising, donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, and all funds raised will be managed by the nonprofit to cover only verified medical and related expenses. Help Hope Live verifies medical and financial need for every patient. Funds raised do not jeopardize his eligibility for state-based benefits such as disability and Medicaid.
Help Hope Live is a national nonprofit that specializes in engaging communities in secure, tax-deductible fundraising campaigns for people who need a transplant or are affected by a catastrophic injury or illness. Since 1983, campaigns organized by Help Hope Live have raised over $165 million to pay patient expenses. ###
Written by Emily Progin
