At Mesothelioma Hope, supporting the mesothelioma community means more than providing information and resources. It means standing alongside patients, families, survivors, caregivers, advocates, and researchers who are working to raise awareness and improve the future for people affected by this rare cancer.
We’re proud to sponsor Miles for Meso 2026, an annual community and fundraising event held in Alton, Illinois, and virtually across the country. Presented by our partner law firm, Simmons Hanly Conroy, Miles for Meso gives us an opportunity to come together with others who share a commitment to the mesothelioma community.
Miles for Meso focuses on:
- Community gathering: Survivors, families, advocates, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters come together to honor people affected by mesothelioma.
- Fundraising: Proceeds from the 2026 race benefit the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) and its work to prevent asbestos-related disease.
- Raising awareness: The event brings attention to the dangers of asbestos and the ongoing impact of asbestos-related diseases.
We’re honored to contribute to the Miles for Meso mission and stand alongside the many people who have been affected by this disease. Every mile represents something different to the people who participate — remembrance, hope, advocacy, support, and a commitment to finding better answers for patients and families.
About the Miles for Meso 2026 Race
The 2026 Miles for Meso race will be the 18th year of this annual 5k race and fun run. Miles for Meso brings together mesothelioma survivors, families, advocates, and community members to raise awareness and funds for research.
The event will be held on Saturday, September 19. The flagship race will take place outside the Simmons Hanly Conroy national headquarters in Alton, Illinois, where the firm hosted the first Miles for Meso in 2009. Participants can also join virtually across the country.
Since its inaugural race, Miles for Meso has raised more than $977,500 for mesothelioma research and asbestos awareness organizations.
The 2026 Alton event includes:
- 5K race: The main competitive race begins at 9 a.m.
- 3K fun run/walk: A shorter, family-friendly option for participants of all ages and abilities.
- Virtual option: People who cannot attend in Alton can participate from anywhere.
- A local theme: This year’s event celebrates Alton’s musical heritage as the birthplace of jazz legend Miles Davis.
Simmons Hanly Conroy continues to serve as the event’s national presenting sponsor, while Sokolove Law is a Diamond Sponsor of the 2026 race. Proceeds of the in-person and virtual race will benefit the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO).
“For nearly two decades, Miles for Meso has proven that awareness is something you build one step at a time. We’re honored to stand with the survivors and the families who make this event what it is.”
The event will also happen one week before Mesothelioma Awareness Day on September 26, providing another opportunity to recognize those affected by mesothelioma and help raise awareness of the disease.
Why We Sponsor Miles for Meso
Supporting Miles for Meso is an opportunity to stand alongside the people and families whose lives have been changed by mesothelioma and help keep their stories visible.
The event brings the mesothelioma community together around awareness, advocacy, remembrance, and hope, raising funds for mesothelioma research and advocacy since its launch in 2009.
Mesothelioma Hope is proud to support Miles for Meso to:
- Build connection: Bring survivors, families, advocates, professionals, and supporters together around a shared cause.
- Give a voice to the community: Amplify the experiences of people and families affected by mesothelioma.
- Honor those we’ve lost: Create a meaningful space to remember people whose lives were cut short by mesothelioma.
- Put our values into action: We’re proud to walk the walk with the mesothelioma community beside us.
- Raise awareness: Bring attention to the dangers of asbestos and the continued impact of asbestos-related disease.
- Support the search for better treatments: Help turn community action into funding for research and advocacy, raising awareness about the risks of asbestos and fighting for a full asbestos ban.
Ultimately, sponsoring Miles for Meso is about showing up for the community we serve. Every runner, walker, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter adds momentum to a cause that deserves continued attention.
“Each year, we are inspired by individuals, families, volunteers, and sponsors who make this event possible. Together, we’re raising awareness, supporting groundbreaking research, and honoring everyone whose lives have been touched by mesothelioma.”
For an organization dedicated to helping people affected by mesothelioma, being part of an event that turns awareness into action is a natural extension of that mission.
How to Take Part in Miles for Meso
Taking part in Miles for Meso is designed to be accessible whether you’re a serious runner, a casual walker, or someone who simply wants to support the mesothelioma community.
The 2026 Alton event takes place Saturday, September 19. Participants can join in person or virtually from wherever they live.
Here are some key ways to get involved:
- Register for the 5K or walk the 3K: Join the in-person competitive race in Alton, Illinois, or choose the shorter fun run/walk option.
- Participate virtually: Complete the 5K in your own community, setting your own course and checking in with pictures on social media along the way.
- Join or create a team: Bring family, friends, coworkers, or fellow advocates together.
- Fundraise or donate: Help support the event’s mission and the mesothelioma community with a financial contribution.
- Share your participation: Post about how mesothelioma has touched your life and use #MilesForMeso to spread awareness.
Whether you run every race or take a few miles at a walking pace, every participant helps turn a simple community event into a larger statement about mesothelioma awareness and the dangers of asbestos.
“Miles for Meso means that somebody has my back — and somebody is amplifying my voice against the use of asbestos and the industry of corporate greed.”
Get Mesothelioma Support
Mesothelioma Hope provides free support and resources to help families find experienced mesothelioma specialists, understand treatment options, explore financial assistance, and connect with trusted legal professionals.
Whether you were recently diagnosed or have been living with mesothelioma for years, our Patient Advocates are here for every step of your journey.
Contact our team today for more information on Miles for Meso, joining our support group, or to request specific resources.
