This year marks the 42nd annual Prouty, the fundraising event that brings the Upper Valley community together, celebrating those who have been impacted by cancer.

Friday and Saturday, July 14 and 15, the Prouty was held at its usual place in Hanover, New Hampshire. The Prouty is northern New England’s largest fundraising event put on by Dartmouth Cancer Center. It is an event that many hold close in their hearts due to the personal nature of its creation.

The Prouty began in 1982 by four cancer center nurses who, inspired by their patient, Audrey Prouty, cycled 100 miles through the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It raises money and awareness for life-saving research and patient/ family services at Dartmouth Cancer Center. 

Thousands gather every year to bike, walk, row, golf, cycle, and more in the name of this moving event and its cause. The rowing event this year was the only event that had to be cancelled due to flooding.

“This year’s Prouty was one for the record books!” says Jaclynn Rodriguez, executive director for Friends of Dartmouth Cancer Center. “To see our community come together in a such a massive way to support patients and families at Dartmouth Cancer Center is truly inspiring. Participants came from all over to help fuel groundbreaking cancer research and vital patient support services at our Cancer Center.”

The 42nd annual Prouty raised more than 7.7 million dollars, exceeding their 7-million-dollar goal. Jaclynn shares that they had 3,500 participants this year, along with an additional 750 volunteers. In the Individual participant category, Dick Mackay raised $221,934, earning his spot at the top. The top team was Upper Valley Rowing & Friends, with $339,982 raised. Find more about the event-specific leaderboards here.

“The Prouty spreads love and hope to everyone impacted by cancer,” says Jaclynn. “Friday and Saturday were filled with smiles, hugs, sweat, laughter, and tears of joy, hope, and remembrance. The Prouty is a true celebration of our community coming together to make a difference.”

If you wish to be a part of this monumental event next year, be sure to sign up or volunteer.