Physicians, patients and researchers unite at 4,600 metres to advance global CML care

February 26th 2026 – The International CML Foundation (iCMLf) this week launches the iCMLf Climb for a Cure 2026, its flagship global fundraising initiative bringing together physicians, researchers, people living with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and supporters for an eight-day high-altitude expedition through Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes.

Nineteen members of the global CML community will trek to altitudes exceeding 4,600 metres in the foothills of Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. The expedition symbolises the resilience, preparation and long-term commitment required to advance CML care and accelerate progress toward a cure.

While targeted therapies have transformed survival for many people living with CML, significant challenges remain. Many patients require lifelong treatment, long-term quality-of-life considerations continue to evolve, and access to specialist CML care remains uneven across regions. The iCMLf Climb for a Cure 2026 highlights the need for sustained international collaboration to ensure that scientific progress reaches every patient, regardless of geography.

The iCMLf Climb for a Cure builds on successful expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro (2019) and Annapurna Base Camp (2023), which together raised more than US$500,000 to support research, education and international collaboration. The 2026 climb represents the next phase of the Foundation’s mission to translate scientific discovery into meaningful and equitable outcomes for people living with CML worldwide.

Participants include hematologists, researchers, patients, family members, industry partners and advocates climbing side by side - a visible demonstration that advancing CML care requires collaboration across disciplines, sectors and continents. Climbers will travel from Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Lebanon, New Zealand, Switzerland, the UK and the USA. The program begins in Quito with a scientific exchange meeting with the Ecuadorian Hematology Society before the team enters Cotopaxi National Park for the high-altitude trek.

Among the climbers are individuals living with CML, demonstrating firsthand the strength and resilience of the global CML community.

Funds raised through the iCMLf Climb for a Cure 2026 will directly support the iCMLf’s global programs in clinician education, international research collaboration, and initiatives designed to strengthen CML care in low- and middle-income countries, helping translate scientific progress into equitable patient outcomes worldwide.

The iCMLf Climb for a Cure 2026 is supported by a growing group of industry partners, including Major Sponsor Novartis. Other supporters are Enliven Therapeutics, Terns Pharmaceuticals, Ascentage Pharma and the South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI).

Stefanie Granado, Therapeutic Area Head, Oncology International at Novartis, said: 

“Treatment innovation in CML is one of the great success stories of modern oncology, yet the journey is not complete. Supporting the iCMLf Climb for a Cure 2026 reflects our long-standing commitment to the global CML community and to collaborative efforts that continue to advance research, education and equitable care.” 

Nicola Evans, Chief Executive of the iCMLf and a participant in the climb, said:

“Climbing at altitude demands preparation, endurance and teamwork — the same qualities required to improve outcomes in CML globally. I am proud to walk alongside physicians, researchers and people living with CML as we take on this challenge together.”

Treatment for CML has advanced remarkably, but not every patient benefits equally. Every step we take in Ecuador represents our shared determination to strengthen global collaboration, reduce inequities in care, and move closer to a future where a cure is possible for every person living with CML.”

Donations in support of the iCMLf Climb for a Cure 2026 are now open via the official campaign website. All funds raised will support the iCMLf’s global programs in education, scientific research collaboration, and equitable access to CML care.

Find out more at: https://climb-for-a-cure.raiselysite.com/