Enschede Marathon 2027

Major boost for cancer research and care in the region thanks to the Enschede Marathon

Participants of the Enschede Marathon have made tremendous impact on cancer research and care in the region by joining Run Against Cancer and raising funds for KWF Kankerbestrijding. Thanks to their efforts, several local initiatives were funded: research into better cancer treatment and three IPSO centres for living with and after cancer, which are already benefiting patients and their loved ones.

Isolating tumour cells from blood

Ruchi Bunsal and Michiel Stevens investigated a new technique to detect cancer cells in blood. This can sometimes literally be like looking for a needle in a haystack. But it is crucial to detect these cells, Stevens explains: “By finding tumour cells in blood, we can better understand how the tumour develops. At the University of Twente, I conducted research on a magnetic needle, as thin as a hair, to pick up cells one by one. We hope that in the future this technique can help determine the best treatment for an individual patient. That would be a huge step forward, for both patients and doctors.”

More information about this completed research project and a more extensive interview with researcher Michiel Stevens— who also enjoys running —can be found on the KWF project page.

Personalised aftercare in three IPSO centres for living with and after cancer nearby

In IPSO centres for living with and after cancer, patients and their loved ones can find peer support, a meaningful conversation or organised activities. Thanks to the proceeds of the Enschede Marathon, three of these IPSO centres are able to further improve their services:

• De Nije Hoeve (Hengelo) is developing the Nije Vitaal barn: a space where patients can receive both physical and mental support, guided by expert physiotherapists.
  
  
• Oriolus (Winterswijk) organizes swimming sessions, guided by a specialised swimming instructor. This activity can make an important contribution to recovery after cancer treatment.
  
  
• Het Vechtgenotenhuis (Ommen) is able to expand its vitality programme thanks to this contribution. The programme encourages physical activity and awareness around healthy nutrition.