What began as two daughter’s desire to honor their dad has grown into a powerful community effort to fight one of the world’s most aggressive forms of brain cancer.

The inaugural Tommy’s Trek raised $18,000, with all proceeds donated to the Glioblastoma Foundation to support research into glioblastoma, an aggressive and often fatal brain cancer that affects thousands of Americans each year.

Held at Ballou Park, the event drew hundreds of participants, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who walked together in memory of those lost to glioblastoma and in hope of finding better treatments and, one day, a cure.

Tommy’s Trek was established in memory of Tommy Doss, whose battle with glioblastoma inspired his daughters to transform their loss into a mission of hope. Organizers said the response from the Danville community exceeded all expectations.

“The support we received was incredible,” said organizer Sophie Doss. “Seeing so many people come together for this cause was overwhelming. Every person who registered, donated, volunteered, or sponsored the event became part of something much bigger than a walk. Together, we’re helping fund research that could change lives.”

Glioblastoma remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat, making community-driven fundraising efforts like Tommy’s Trek an important source of support for continued research.

Beyond the fundraising success, organizers say the event also provided an opportunity for families affected by brain cancer to connect, remember loved ones, and find encouragement in a community united by compassion.

The success of the first Tommy’s Trek has already inspired plans for the event to return next year, with organizers hoping to grow participation and raise even more funding for glioblastoma research.

“We lost our dad, but his legacy continues to make a difference,” Taylor Doss said. “If this event gives even one family more hope for the future, then every step we took was worth it.”