Events
Gastro Dash 5K for Stomach Cancer
Event Description
Get ready for the 2nd Annual Gastro Dash 5K for Stomach Cancer!
🏃♂️💨 Inspired by Survivors. Powered by One Dream.
Saturday, November 7, 2026, in beautiful Phoenix, Arizona! Hosted by the dedicated team at Gastro Dash 5K, this uplifting event is not just a race; it's a vibrant celebration of hope, resilience, and community support. As part of Stomach Cancer Awareness Month, participants can choose between a timed 5K run and a casual walk, making it perfect for everyone, from seasoned runners to families looking to make a difference.
Join us for a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and purpose, where every step taken helps raise awareness and funds for stomach cancer research and advocacy. Enjoy fun activities like raffles, photo opportunities, and tasty snacks, while also receiving a personalized results receipt, an event t-shirt, and a custom participation medal (guaranteed with advanced registration by Oct 30th). Your participation directly supports Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer™, a non-profit organization committed to improving the lives of those affected by stomach cancer. Don’t miss out on this chance to dash 🏃♂️💨 toward a future where stomach cancer doesn’t stand a chance! Check-in begins at 7 AM, with the race kicking off at 8 AM
We look forward to seeing you!
To become a sponsor or to donate visit: SPONSOR FORM
RAFFLE ITEMS on RACE DAY:
We are so excited for these awesome donations for raffle items! Raffle Tickets will be available 7-10 days before the race and the day of.
- C2 Foldable Walking Pads (Qty 4)
- Madison Reed Salon Package
- Starbucks Mugs
- Gift Cards
- MORE ITEMS COMING SOON....
The Story Behind Gastro Dash
I’m Niccole Branson, an Arizona native, Chandler resident, and a three-time stage IV metastatic stomach cancer survivor. I created Gastro Dash to raise awareness, build community, and generate critical support for those affected by this devastating disease.
In 2021, at just 37 years old, I was diagnosed with stage III stomach cancer. I had no family history and only vague symptoms. My treatment included months of chemotherapy, removal of 80% of my stomach and gallbladder, and 25 rounds of radiation. When I was told I was cancer-free, I believed the hardest chapter was behind me.
But my story didn’t end there.
In 2024, during what was supposed to be a preventative hysterectomy, doctors discovered my cancer had returned and spread to my ovaries, liver, spleen, colon, and peritoneum. I faced more chemotherapy and multiple major surgeries, including two HIPEC procedures.
And now, in 2026, I am once again facing a recurrence and actively working through another chapter of my cancer journey. It’s a reminder that stomach cancer doesn’t simply end when treatment does; and why awareness, research, advocacy, and support are so important.
My journey has shown me firsthand how isolating and overwhelming stomach cancer can be. Patients and families need better resources, earlier detection, stronger support, and a community that understands what they’re going through.
That’s why Gastro Dash was born.
Held during Stomach Cancer Awareness Month, Gastro Dash is more than a 5K, it’s a movement to make sure no one faces stomach cancer alone. Through our partnership with Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer™, we’re helping support research, education, advocacy, and resources for patients and families.
Whether you sponsor, donate, run, or walk alongside us, every step makes a difference.
This isn’t just my story. It’s the story of thousands of people still waiting for hope.
Let’s show them they’re not alone.
I look forward to seeing you on race day!
— Niccole
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
Arizona Falls Canal, Phoenix
Arizona Falls Canal 5802 E Indian School Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85018 US
View Location on Map
$350
Raised of $25,000
Due to safety considerations, dogs will not be allowed at this event. We appreciate your understanding.
Parking will be located at the church to the north of the Arizona Falls canal.
Yes, race day registration will be allowed on the day of the event.
Yes, there will be water provided.
Yes, a shirt and medal are included with advanced registration (**Guaranteed when registerd by Oct 30th**).
