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Stand Up To Cancer Day

Join us in standing up to cancer and supporting those affected - donate, raise awareness, or show your support today!

Friday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESecond Friday in September

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYCancer

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to take a stand against cancer on Stand Up To Cancer Day, which takes place this year on the second Friday of September! This special day was founded in 2008 by a group of entertainment industry leaders with the goal of raising awareness and funds for cancer research. Since its inception, Stand Up To Cancer Day has become an international event, with people from all walks of life standing together in support of those affected by cancer. So join us this year and help make a difference – because we can all do our part to fight back against cancer!

TIMELINE

Stand Up To Cancer Day Timeline

War on Cancer Begins

U.S. President Richard Nixon signs the National Cancer Act, launching a national effort to combat cancer.

Breakthrough in Cancer Research

Scientists discover oncogenes, genes that have the potential to cause cancer, a crucial breakthrough in cancer research.

First Targeted Cancer Therapy

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves Gleevec as the first targeted cancer therapy, opening a new era in cancer treatment.

First Stand Up To Cancer Day

The first Stand Up To Cancer Day is celebrated, an initiative launched by entertainment industry leaders to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.

Impact of Stand Up To Cancer

Stand Up To Cancer raises over $180 million for cancer research, highlighting the potential of collective fundraising and support.

Continuous Efforts

Stand Up To Cancer Day continues its efforts as a global event, advocating and educating about the importance of cancer research, advancement, care, and cure.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Stand Up To Cancer Day

Organize a fundraiser

Organizing a fundraiser is a great way to both raise money and awareness for cancer research. Consider hosting an event like a dinner or a walkathon to bring people together in support of the cause.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a charity event

Look for local charity events, like 5Ks and marathons, that raise money for cancer research and participate in them. Even if you don't run, you can still volunteer to help out with registration, hand out water, or work the finish line.

DONATE

Donate to the cause

Make a donation to Stand Up To Cancer directly or to another organization that is actively working on cancer research and treatment.

Share your story

Share your own story of how cancer has affected your life or someone close to you. It can be a powerful way to inspire others to stand up and fight back against cancer.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Raise awareness about cancer and Stand Up To Cancer by sharing information on social media, talking to friends and family, or even starting your own blog or podcast.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Stand Up To Cancer Day is Important

We need funds for research & treatment

Finding new ways to combat cancer requires extensive research and trials. Stand Up To Cancer Day calls attention to the need for adequate funding for these projects, which could lead to life saving breakthroughs and treatments in the future.

Cancer affects so many people

Each year, millions of people around the world are affected by some form of cancer. From small children to elderly adults, cancer does not discriminate - it can strike anyone at any time. Stand Up To Cancer Day serves as a reminder that we must all take action in order to prevent and fight this terrible disease.

We need to raise awareness

Raising awareness about the importance of early detection is key when it comes to battling cancer. Stand Up To Cancer Day helps to spread the word about the signs and symptoms of different types of cancers, which enables individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare.