Honoring Our Dedicated Fundraisers in Our 20th Year

As we say in our tagline, there is Strength in Community.

The CCF community is built on compassion, resilience, and a shared commitment to creating something better for those affected by cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). You shape every decision we make and keep us deeply connected to our mission.

When someone from our community steps forward and says, “I want to fundraise,” it is something we never take for granted.

For many, fundraising becomes more than an event. It becomes a way to honor a loved one, process grief, celebrate survivorship, or find purpose in the midst of uncertainty. In many cases, it becomes part of a healing journey.

The time, energy, and heart poured into these efforts directly fuel research, patient programs, and support resources for individuals and families navigating cholangiocarcinoma. Just as importantly, these efforts inspire others to give, get involved, and carry the mission forward.

Honoring Our 20th Year with Purpose

As we honor 20 years since our founding in 2006, we wanted to mark this milestone in a meaningful way by highlighting a group of extraordinary Community Fundraisers who have each raised $20,000 or more through a single campaign or event. This moment is not about setting a new benchmark, but about celebrating the impact of our community through the lens of this 20-year milestone.

2026 Community Fundraisers

• Liz Warner, CCF Board Member | New York, NY
  Michael Warner Remembrance Campaign
  In loving memory of father, Michael Warner
  
• Debra Gruda | Long Island, NY
  Because Jonah Would Benefit Event
  In loving memory of husband, Jonah Gruda
  
• Keaton Herzer | Denver, CO
  Climb for Cholangiocarcinoma
  Conquering survivorship and advocating for others
  
• Julia Dambly | Boston, MA
  Team Lulu – Running for Lauren, Team CCF NYC Marathon
  In honor of mother and patient, Lauren Dambly
  
• Sydney Towle | New York, NY
  “Happy to be here” Little Words Project Bracelet
  Conquering patient life and advocating for others

Each of these fundraisers represents something deeply personal. Behind every campaign is a story, a family, a community, and a commitment to making a difference for others.

To every individual who has hosted, supported, donated to, or shared a community fundraiser – thank you. Your generosity, leadership, and willingness to turn personal experiences into collective impact continue to move this mission forward in powerful ways.

Be Part of What’s Possible

If you’ve ever considered fundraising in honor of a loved one, to celebrate your own journey, or simply to make a difference, we invite you to take that first step in honor of our 20th year.

Whether your goal is big or small, every effort matters. And in this milestone year, we welcome anyone who feels inspired to be part of this collective impact in whatever way is meaningful to them.

You don’t need a large event or a big network to make a difference. You just need a story, a purpose, and a willingness to begin.

Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Together, we can continue building a community rooted in hope, connection, and progress and ensure that no one facing cholangiocarcinoma feels alone.

Learn more about fundraising:Contact Kaitlin Chamberlain, Community Fundraising Director, at [email protected] or visit the Community Fundraising Guide