Support Tommy Rivers Puzey in the Run with Rivs virtual challenge

After a long stay full of uncertainty at an Arizona hospital, American ultrarunner Tommy Rivers Puzey was diagnosed with primary pulmonary NK/T-cell lymphoma, a rare type of cancer, in late July. To help raise funds to cover his medical bills, a virtual running challenge called the Run with Rivs has been created. The challenge gives participants the chance to “join Rivers in the sports he adores,” and “run, ride, hike, paddle and/or walk for as many miles as you can to raise money for his family.” The fundraiser started on Saturday, and it is live until August 9 for anyone who would like to participate and donate. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDTXPoTl5wU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Rivers Puzey first started to feel sick earlier in the summer. Thinking it could have been COVID-19, he self-isolated at home, but as the weeks passed and his situation failed to improve, he went to the hospital. He stayed there for several weeks, although doctors didn’t give him a diagnosis for some time. On July 24, his brother posted on Instagram to announce that Rivers Puzey had finally been diagnosed, and it was cancer.

RELATED: Tommy Rivers Puzey diagnosed with cancer

“This isn’t going to be a two-week stint in the hospital like he thought it might be,” Jacob said in the Instagram video. “This is going to be a long treatment.” He went on to say Rivers Puzey’s wife, Steph, and their three daughters need help. “Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.” 

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CDWmaJQFy5O/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The goal of the Run with Rivs challenge is “to allow his family to focus their energy on helping him heal, not be consumed with mounting medical costs. Lift them up by doing what Rivers does best—cover ground, breathe, involve friends and family and share the journey.” Participants are encouraged to “choose any activity that allows you to cover ground under your own power,” whether that’s running, cycling, kayaking or doing any other physical activity. 

RELATED: Cancer-beating Canadian takes on world’s most famous, and daunting, ultra

“Smile, push the pace, cover the miles, cry if you have to,” the challenge website says. “Just get the work done.” 

In addition to the Run with Rivs challenge, there is a GoFundMe page dedicated to raising money for his family and their medical bills. So far, more than $420,000 has been donated to that fundraiser. To donate, click here, and to contribute to and participate in the Run with Rivs challenge, visit the event website.