
From Ana Banana, With Love
5K Walk/Run & 1-Mile Fun Run
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE, PLEASE DONATE HERE
Welcome to the third edition of "From Ana Banana with Love” 5 K run/walk and 1 Mile fun run. Today, we lace up our shoes not only to celebrate the spirit of our beloved Ana but also to unite in the fight against cancer. As we gather here, we carry the memories of Ana in our hearts, honoring her courageous battle with DIPG (pediatric brain cancer) and all those who are currently facing the challenges of any other form of pediatric cancer.
Ana's light continues to shine brightly as we embark on this journey together, running not just for ourselves but for the countless individuals whose lives have been touched by pediatric cancer. Today is not just about crossing the finish line; it's about crossing boundaries, defying odds, and making a difference. As we run, jog, or walk side by side, let us remember that every stride we take brings us closer to a future where cancer should no longer hold power over us.
As we prepare for the 2026 edition of From Ana Banana with Love 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Fun Run, we reflect with gratitude on the lives touched through the first two years of this event. In 2024, our inaugural edition supported a mother of two bravely battling breast cancer and honored Sofia, a courageous little girl who fought DIPG and is now remembered alongside Ana. In 2025, our second edition helped Greyson, who continues his fight against ependymoma, and Carla, who is courageously battling Wilms tumor. That same year, we proudly launched the Ana Molnar Foundation to extend support to families facing the unimaginable challenges of a childhood cancer diagnosis. This year, our mission continues as we plan to support two additional children and their families, carrying forward Ana’s legacy of love, hope, and compassion. Through this event, we come together not only to run, but to raise awareness, offer support, and remind families facing these battles that they are not alone.
Registration
- 5K/1Mile: The package will include a T-shirt and the tracking number. Also, each participant under the age of 16 will receive a recognition of participation upon completion of the race.
- Waiver Requirement: All participants must sign a waiver to participate
Sign Up Here
🔥🔥 Early Bird expires July 1st🔥🔥
👉 Volunteers: If you want to get involved by becoming a volunteer for this event, please register HERE.
This event is dedicated to raising funds for two (2) families fighting pediatric cancer.
We aim to distribute funds transparently and equitably, with the potential to expand our support to broader pediatric cancer causes in future events.
How to Participate
- Register: Choose between the 5K walk/run and the 1-mile fun run
- Donate: Can't make the event? You can still support the cause by DONATING HERE.
Important Notes
* The trail will remain open to the public during the event.
* All event details are subject to change. Stay tuned to our website and social media for the latest updates.
Ana Banana 2025 Ambassadors
Gabriela Cosma
Program Coordinator "Learn Romanian", Supporter of ROCO, the Romanian Community Center
Horia Dobrean-Urzica
ROCO Teens Impact Club Junior Lead, ROCO Ambasador
Oana Dobrean-Urzica
ROCO Executive Director, Board of Directors
Ioan Guset
Honorary Member of ROCO, the Romanian Community Center
Monica Horga
RUF Founding Member, ROCO Teens Program Co - Lead, Lead Volunteer
Irina Nedeljkovic
RUF Core Team Member, "Trips To Romania" Program Manager
Marius Pop
Honorary Member of RoCo, Romanian Community Center of Chicago
Miruna Zamfirescu
Founding Member, Reporting Officer, VP of Fundraising
Do you like this page?