Worldwide Cancer Research

Benjamin Kompa

Ben Raises to Run the London Marathon

Ben Raises to Run the London Marathon

My Story

I'm raising money to support Worldwide Cancer Research, honor the memories of my grandfather and mentor and begin my journey of running the World Marathon Majors

The pandemic put so many things on pause - weddings stopped, travel halted, and schools closed. But for me, the pandemic paused my plans to see some of the most important people in my life. Unfortunately, in two cases, I could not visit those closest to me who were dealing with cancer. 

In October 2020, my college mentor, Dr. Josef Blass, passed away from cancer. During my time at UNC Chapel Hill, Josef taught me bridge and shared his incredible wisdom on life.

Six months later, my grandfather, John Kompa Sr, lost his own battle with cancer. A renowned coach, teacher, and family man, I owe my passion in math and science to Poppy. He did teach me algebra, but he really taught me so much more. 

Ok, but what's this about running? 

During Covid, I also started to run. And run. And run some more. It turns out that I have both a passion and a hint of speed! I've won a half marathon with nearly 200 people and later qualified for the Boston Marathon. This kicked off my goal of running the 6 world marathon majors. 

For American runners, participating in the London marathon is quite a challenge. The lottery has a 5% success rate. The only other options are to be so fast you're a professional, travel with a luxury tour, or raise money for charity. The latter made the most sense for me and will do the most good in the world!

And why Worldwide Cancer Research? 

When looking at charities I could raise money for, I really wanted to identify opportunities that even have the slightest chance of improving the lives of those dealing with cancer. I never got to see Josef nor Poppy one last time, and my frustration with/at/against cancer is still simmering.

Worldwide Cancer Research has donated £200 million to cancer research over its 43 year history and continues to fund innovative scientific studies that drive drugs towards clinical trials. They've funded research that has directly led to treatments for cancers. 

The final word

I'm excited to contribute in whatever small way I can towards cancer research. I'm pumped to run this marathon. I'd deeply appreciate any support you could add towards these goals!

Worldwide Cancer Research

Raising for:

Worldwide Cancer Research
102%

Funded

  • Target
    £2,250
  • Raised so far
    £2,300
  • Number of donors
    6

My Story

I'm raising money to support Worldwide Cancer Research, honor the memories of my grandfather and mentor and begin my journey of running the World Marathon Majors

The pandemic put so many things on pause - weddings stopped, travel halted, and schools closed. But for me, the pandemic paused my plans to see some of the most important people in my life. Unfortunately, in two cases, I could not visit those closest to me who were dealing with cancer. 

In October 2020, my college mentor, Dr. Josef Blass, passed away from cancer. During my time at UNC Chapel Hill, Josef taught me bridge and shared his incredible wisdom on life.

Six months later, my grandfather, John Kompa Sr, lost his own battle with cancer. A renowned coach, teacher, and family man, I owe my passion in math and science to Poppy. He did teach me algebra, but he really taught me so much more. 

Ok, but what's this about running? 

During Covid, I also started to run. And run. And run some more. It turns out that I have both a passion and a hint of speed! I've won a half marathon with nearly 200 people and later qualified for the Boston Marathon. This kicked off my goal of running the 6 world marathon majors. 

For American runners, participating in the London marathon is quite a challenge. The lottery has a 5% success rate. The only other options are to be so fast you're a professional, travel with a luxury tour, or raise money for charity. The latter made the most sense for me and will do the most good in the world!

And why Worldwide Cancer Research? 

When looking at charities I could raise money for, I really wanted to identify opportunities that even have the slightest chance of improving the lives of those dealing with cancer. I never got to see Josef nor Poppy one last time, and my frustration with/at/against cancer is still simmering.

Worldwide Cancer Research has donated £200 million to cancer research over its 43 year history and continues to fund innovative scientific studies that drive drugs towards clinical trials. They've funded research that has directly led to treatments for cancers. 

The final word

I'm excited to contribute in whatever small way I can towards cancer research. I'm pumped to run this marathon. I'd deeply appreciate any support you could add towards these goals!