Catalonia hosted a major charity telethon dedicated to supporting cancer research. By midday, donations had already exceeded 1.2 million euros—more than at the same time last year. Organizers noted growing interest in the campaign, with locals actively participating in fundraising efforts.
The traditional celebrity football match at the stadium in Vic was one of the main highlights of the morning. For the first time, the interim donation total was announced there, using the numbers on players’ jerseys to display the sum. The atmosphere at the stadium was festive, with fans cheering not only for their favorite artists and athletes, but also for the common cause.
Music and personal stories
Throughout the day, viewers enjoyed performances by popular artists: Titó, Beta, Lildami, Buhos, Samurai, and Blaumut took the stage. Between musical acts, moving stories were shared by people who have faced cancer, as well as insights from doctors and cancer prevention specialists.
Hosts emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and prevention, highlighting that every euro raised is an investment in the future of medicine. Both celebrities and everyday people appeared on air to share their experiences fighting the disease.
A marathon for all of Catalonia
The program lasted over 17 hours and covered the entire region. Broadcasters worked from several locations: the morning began with a live broadcast from the port of Tarragona, featuring a special radio program, while the main part of the telethon took place in the historic Torre Bellesguard building, designed by Antoni Gaudí and once used as an oncology clinic.
In the afternoon, the broadcast moved to a studio in Sant Joan Despí. Throughout the day, well-known Catalan figures appeared on air, including journalist Júlia Otero, TV host Òscar Dalmau, basketball player Ricky Rubio, and coach Andrea Fuentes. They shared personal stories and supported the participants.
Hundreds of events and thousands of volunteers
On this day, over three thousand charity events were held across Catalonia, including concerts, sports competitions, festivals, walks, and group lunches. Residents of cities and villages came together for a single goal: to raise as much money as possible in the fight against cancer.
Donations were accepted via the marathon’s website, bank transfers, a special Bizum number, and by phone, which was available only on the day of the event. More than 1,200 volunteers worked at four call centers in Barcelona, Girona, Lleida, and Tarragona. They answered calls, helped process transfers, and advised participants.
A contribution to science
Over its 33-year history, the marathon in Catalonia has raised more than 257 million euros. These funds have financed over a thousand scientific projects involving thousands of researchers. Thanks to the support of local residents, science gains new opportunities to find effective methods for cancer treatment and prevention.
Organizers note that each year the marathon grows larger, with increasing numbers of participants and funds raised. Catalans continue to demonstrate that, through collective effort, it is possible to change the situation and bring us closer to defeating the disease.
