On behalf of Virginia Urology, we are proud to celebrate the success of the 2026 Walk to End Bladder Cancer in Richmond. This year’s event brought together more than 100 participants, united across 17 registered teams, and raised more than $18,000 in support of bladder cancer awareness, education, research, and patient advocacy.
More than just a fundraising event, the Walk to End Bladder Cancer served as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when patients, survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, families, and community members come together with a shared purpose. The morning was filled with stories of resilience, hope, remembrance, and determination, reflecting the strength of the bladder cancer community and the importance of ensuring that no one faces this journey alone.
Supporting a Cause That Impacts Thousands
Bladder cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. According to the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN), an estimated 84,530 people will be diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2026. While the disease is often associated with men, approximately one in four bladder cancer patients are women, highlighting the importance of awareness and early detection for everyone.
The annual Walk to End Bladder Cancer is organized by Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing bladder cancer awareness, supporting patients and caregivers, funding research, and advocating for improved treatment options and outcomes. Since its founding in 2005, BCAN has provided educational resources, support services, and a sense of community for thousands of individuals affected by bladder cancer.
BCAN’s mission focuses on four critical areas:
- Education
- Patient Support
- Research
- Advocacy and Public Policy
These efforts help patients and families navigate their diagnosis while also driving progress toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
A Community Effort
Virginia Urology is honored to support initiatives that directly impact the lives of our patients and the broader community. The success of this year’s walk would not have been possible without the incredible dedication of our volunteers, team captains, sponsors, participants, and supporters.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer whose time, energy, and behind-the-scenes efforts helped create a welcoming and meaningful experience for all who attended. Their commitment exemplifies the spirit of service that makes events like this possible.
We also want to recognize and thank BCAN, along with our local and national sponsors, whose continued partnership and unwavering support help bring the Walk to End Bladder Cancer to communities across the country. Together, these organizations and individuals are helping to raise awareness, provide critical resources, and support research efforts that benefit current and future patients.
Why Awareness Matters
One of BCAN’s guiding principles is ensuring that patients know they are not alone. Through support groups, educational materials, patient-to-patient connections, advocacy programs, and research initiatives, BCAN empowers individuals and families throughout every stage of the bladder cancer journey.
Events like the Walk to End Bladder Cancer help shine a light on a disease that often receives less public attention than other cancers, despite affecting tens of thousands of Americans each year. By increasing awareness, supporting research, and fostering community connections, we can continue to improve outcomes and provide hope for those impacted by bladder cancer.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Walk to End Bladder Cancer was a tremendous success, but the work continues. Virginia Urology remains committed to supporting patients, advancing education, and partnering with organizations like BCAN to improve the lives of those affected by bladder cancer.
To everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, or cheered from the sidelines, thank you for helping make this event so meaningful.
If you were unable to join us this year, we hope to see you next year as we continue walking together toward a future with greater awareness, better treatment, and more hope for patients and families affected by bladder cancer.