Castaways Against Cancer
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Kayaking, cycling, and running from Miami to Key West to fund cancer research & honor those who have fought the fight. In the end, it's quite simple.
Over $2.5M raised since 2000 thanks to our supporters. The Castaways Against Cancer is a 100% volunteer non-profit comprised of fun-loving, mission-driven individuals focused on fighting cancer. What makes this team unique is the series of arduous journeys it endures every summer from Miami to Key West. Kayakers paddle 160 miles over seven days, runners relay 170 miles over two days, and cyclists pedal the same 170 miles in one grueling day, all to raise money, awareness, and honor those who have battled cancer. What began with a group of four sea-hippies on the water in 2000 has grown into a powerful movement with dozens of volunteers that has raised more than $1.9 million in the fight against cancer. The Castaways Against Cancer continues to be fueled by the original mission of its founder, Steve O'Brien, who more than two decades ago, got in his kayak after losing his mother to cancer. O'Brien was inspired to "light a candle rather than cursing the darkness," which is what the Castaways and its community of supporters continue to do. The Castaways kayak, cycle, and run, donations help the world fight cancer, and we all pray for a cure.
09/21/2026
Castaways merch delivery with a special assistant!
Castaway Armando stopped by Christopher Columbus High School to drop off some gear — with a little extra help along the way. Love seeing the next generation get involved in spreading the Castaways cheer!
09/18/2026
🔔 We rang the bell — and what a way to close out the tour.
The Castaways Against Cancer officially wrapped up our 2026 Ring the Bell Tour by presenting a $200,000 check to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in support of cancer research and the fight for a cure.
This moment belongs to every paddler, volunteer, sponsor, donor, supporter, and loved one who inspired us along the way.
09/08/2026
Throwing it back to the moment this year’s journey officially began. 💙🌊
Our ceremonial first stroke was led by Suzy Curry, cancer survivor and longtime Castaway. With one powerful stroke, she sent our team into the water with hope, purpose, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the fight against cancer.
09/04/2026
From Columbus to the Keys!
Our Junior Castaways showed us that you’re never too young to make a difference. This summer, they laced up and joined the Castaways runners on the Ring the Bell Tour, bringing their energy, heart and commitment to the journey. We can’t wait to see what this year has in store for them!
08/31/2026
Another year, another great time at the Columbus Miami Fishing Tournament! 🎣💙 Always proud to represent Castaways Against Cancer and support the fight against cancer.
08/27/2026
Every summer, we journey from Miami to Key West with more than just our paddles. We carry the names and memories of those who have battled cancer — survivors, warriors, and those we’ve lost. We take those names with us along with us on our journey, reminding everyone that nobody fights cancer alone.
08/25/2026
📍 Outer Banks, NC
08/20/2026
Throwback Thursday 🔔🌊
Throwing it back to June and the unforgettable Ring the Bell Tour with Castaways Against Cancer! 💙
From the first bell to the final finish, our Castaways came together for an incredible journey. We’re still thinking about the miles traveled, the memories made, the bells rung, and the incredible support from everyone who helped make this year’s tour possible.
07/31/2026
Always getting ready for the next Castaways tour 🌊 John Del Rossi is breaking in his new river kayak on the Arkansas River! Great training for the annual Keys adventure!
07/01/2026
Thank you to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center for highlighting the 2026 Ring The Bell launch. It was an inspiring ceremony, and we are so proud to partner and commit to helping this organization fund cancer research.
You can watch the video on the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center SylvesterCancer YouTube channel or click the link here: https://youtu.be/FsskUqk-vFY?si=4L0MjomFTaPgCx_f
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Castaways Against Cancer 8724 Sunset Drive #357
Miami, FL
33173