Analysis results The Run for OncoKids 2026 charity race was held at Astana’s Triathlon Park, bringing together around 1,000 participants. The event was organized in support of children undergoing treatment for cancer, as well as those who have overcome the disease and are currently in remission.
Participants could choose from three distances: 5 km, 2.5 km, or a 1,000-metre family race. Doctors, parents, children, patients in remission, and everyone wishing to support families affected by childhood cancer took part in the event.
One of the main goals of the event was to change public perceptions of childhood cancer. UMC specialists note that modern treatment methods make it possible to achieve high survival rates for a number of childhood cancers. Therefore, timely access to medical care and trust in healthcare professionals are of crucial importance.
Oncohematologist and race organizer Arailym Adilova emphasized that more than 600 children are diagnosed with cancer in Kazakhstan each year. At the same time, survival rates for certain conditions, particularly acute leukemias, can reach 90%.
A special place in the event was given to children who have completed treatment and are now in remission. Doctors refer to them as “champions” in recognition of their strength, courage, and the journey they have gone through together with their families and medical teams.
For many parents, taking part in the race was an opportunity not only to support other families, but also to share their own child’s story. Among the participants was the family of eight-year-old Sanzhar Kashykov, who successfully completed his treatment and is now undergoing regular medical follow-up.
Childhood cancer affects not only a child’s health, but the life of the entire family. Prolonged treatment, regular medical examinations, and the need to remain constantly by the child’s side can become a serious challenge for parents. The social reintegration of children after recovery is equally important, including returning to school, reconnecting with their peers, and fully resuming everyday life.
All funds raised through the charity race will be used to organize recreational activities for children receiving treatment in hospitals. The initiative is intended to create an environment where young patients can continue to play, socialize, and simply be children, even during prolonged periods of treatment.
For healthcare professionals, events such as this are another opportunity to remind the public that childhood cancer should not be seen as a death sentence. Behind every child who recovers is a long journey of treatment, the support of their family, and the dedicated work of a medical team.
Run for OncoKids 2026 brought people together around a simple but important idea: children should have the opportunity to overcome illness and return to a full and active life, while society can and should play a part in supporting them.
