Cancer survivor runs 4 marathons in 24 hours to raise money for rescued dogs

Dan Egeler raised $133,000 for two local nonprofits focused on dog rescue.

October 26, 2020, 7:12 PM

In support of two local nonprofits that focus on rescuing dogs, 59-year-old cancer survivor Dan Egeler ran four marathons in 24 hours this past weekend.

“I just wanted to give you a quick update in terms of how the race went. I did survive,” Egeler, of Dexter, Michigan, told “World News Tonight.” “You know what made it worthwhile was the support I got from all the people during the race.”

Egeler’s initial goal was to raise $50,000 for local nonprofits “Bark Nation” and “Waggin’ Tails Dog Rescue,” but by the time he crossed the finish line this weekend at a total time of 23 hours, 44 minutes, Egeler had raised $133,000.

Cancer survivor Dan Egeler, 59, is running four marathons in 24 hours to raise money for rescued dogs in Dexter, Michigan.
ABC

He said he was inspired to help when he noticed traditional fundraisers were being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Egeler said he was inspired to help when he noticed that the COVID-19 pandemic had led to the cancelation of more traditional fundraisers. Both nonprofits said they were incredibly grateful for the support.

“We are 100% funded off the generosity of people like [Egeler], who are touched by our story and what we do and just want to see these dogs have a better life,” said Kerry McLaughlin, vice president of Bark Nation.

Bark Nation, which rescues and rehabilitates dogs from dogfighting, said on its website that its mission is simple: “to end canine cruelty and save lives.”

Dan Egeler of Dexter, Michigan, pictured with his wife Janet and their dogs.
Dan Egeler

Waggin’ Tails Dog Rescue, a local volunteer-run adoption agency, is also reliant on the generosity of community members like Egeler for its continued support.

“We are completely foster-based so all of the dogs that come into our organization go directly to the homes of our fosters,” said Cathy Cohn, of Waggin’s Tails Dog Rescue.

Egeler created a website called Waggin Bark Race -- to honor both nonprofits -- where people can donate and track him as he completes his nearly 105-mile trek.

Following the extraordinary feat, Egeler challenged others: “I challenge people out there to think of great things they can do and fight to work to get it done.”

Related Topics