DENVER (KDVR) — Dozens of people are rappelling 200 feet down the side of a Denver hotel this week to raise money for cancer research and patient care.
The “Over the Edge” fundraiser kicked off Thursday at the Kimpton Claret Hotel. Participants strap into harnesses and step off the rooftop bar, lowering themselves story by story while supporters cheer from the ground.
“It’s 200 feet straight down, but every step means more money for cancer research and patient care,” said Cancer League of Colorado board member Jim Hackstaff.
Hackstaff said the annual event has raised millions of dollars since it started nearly two decades ago.
“Cancer League of Colorado is unique because every penny we raise goes to cancer research,” Hackstaff said. “We don’t have any staff. We don’t have any offices.”
This year alone, the nonprofit distributed $1.5 million in research grants and services. Since the fundraiser began, Hackstaff said it has brought in more than $3.5 million.
To participate, each rappeller pledges to raise at least $1,000. Organizers say no prior climbing experience is needed, and trained rope experts guide participants through the process.
For cancer survivors, the event is more than just an adrenaline rush.
“Home-grown fundraisers like this one are especially meaningful because they bring people together, raise awareness in a personal way, and remind survivors they’re not alone,” one survivor told FOX31.
Teresa Volgenau, who battled cancer, said awareness is everything.
“Life is precious, and we know how valuable life is here in the state of Colorado because this is a magical place, with magical opportunities,” Volgenau said.
The event runs through Saturday, and sign-ups are still open. A link to register can be found here.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
