CCF Community Rises to the Challenge During Awareness Month

Thank you to the incredible volunteers who dedicated themselves to CCA Awareness Month by fundraising through Choose Your Challenge and Community Events! Their remarkable efforts raised nearly $50,000 in February, marking a significant step toward supporting those affected by cholangiocarcinoma.

The Chicago Marathon Team was tasked with raising $2,025 as a team. Though the marathon is still nine months away, the team embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and raised an astounding $9,465.07! Team member Heather Doran shared, “Raising funds for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation is more than just a donation—it’s a commitment to advancing research, expanding resources, and providing hope to those navigating this challenging disease. The Foundation’s tireless advocacy and patient-first approach make a real impact, ensuring that no one faces cholangiocarcinoma alone. By supporting this mission, we help drive progress toward better treatments, greater awareness, and, ultimately, a cure.”

Sarah Christie wanted to walk five miles daily in memory of her son, George. She joined Team CCF’s Choose Your Challenge with the goal of raising $10,000. Sarah said, “George took on the biggest challenge of his life when he faced battling cholangiocarcinoma. As I reflected on this challenge, I chose to reach out to the Foundation, knowing it supported families and individuals as they, too, met many challenges when dealing with this rare bile duct cancer. It took me 3 years to be ready to participate or create a fundraiser in memory of George. I woke up one day and decided I could meet the challenge of walking 5 miles every day in February. As it turns out, the weather and the elements in Bozeman, MT, definitely were not easy…-20 degrees, ice, snow, wind. Memories of George kept me walking.” At the end of February, Sarah had completed her challenge and raised an incredible $11,907.

Morgan Bourne lost her cousin, Mat Troy, in June 2024. Morgan and Mat’s wife, Rachel, wanted to celebrate his life and continue his legacy of helping others. Mat was a fireman and always eager to lend a hand. When Morgan realized that Mat’s 33rd birthday fell on World CCA Day, she saw it as an opportunity to honor him and raise awareness. Morgan and Rachel launched a birthday fundraiser in Mat’s memory. “Throughout Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month, we poured our hearts into raising awareness, fundraising, and bringing people together in Mat’s honor. From connecting with local firefighters to seeing businesses rally behind this cause, every moment felt like a reflection of the love and loyalty he stood for. I know Mat would be so proud not just of what we accomplished but of the way we showed up for each other, just like he always did.” To date, they have raised $15,356, with more donations expected from local businesses.

Patty McLaughlin and Kelly O’Rourke organized a special Light It Green event combined with a dine-in event for their fundraiser, Light It Up for Bile Duct Cancer, held in Scottsdale, Arizona. They successfully lit the Impulsion Statue at West World green, took a group photo with patients and caregivers, and then enjoyed a meal at Barro’s Pizza. Kelly shared, “We had such an amazing time sharing stories, strength, and love. We will stay in touch, bring in other patients, and get together even before Light It Up 2026! We are not alone!!” Patty and Kelly wanted to host an event to raise awareness and funds for something close to their hearts. Kelly shared,  “I was diagnosed 16 months ago and have drawn so much strength from the resources of the cholangiocarcinoma community. I thank God often for being connected with the Foundation, the Facebook group, and my mentor so quickly.”

Together, these incredible individuals have shown the world the power of community, strength, and love in the fight against cholangiocarcinoma. Their dedication and passion are helping to ensure that no one faces this battle alone.

Thank you to all of our amazing volunteers for their dedication and hard work. You are making a real difference!

If you are interested in hosting a fundraiser or joining an existing athletic event, contact meredith.mcguffage@curecca.org or visit the Get Involved page on the CCF website.