Community event to highlight movement, connection and cancer support while encouraging participation in local run/walk activities including the 2026 Riverbank Run
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids (GCGR) will host a special community screening of the award-winning documentary The Life We Have on Monday, April 6, bringing together members, supporters and the broader community for an inspiring evening focused on resilience, movement and connection.
Produced by REI Co-op Studios, The Life We Have follows REI employee Rob Shaver, who has lived with stage four bone and lung cancer for more than 20 years. Despite his diagnosis, Shaver has committed to running at least one mile every day for more than three years, transforming a simple routine into a powerful symbol of perseverance, hope and purpose. The film explores universal questions about meaning, endurance and how individuals move forward in the face of ongoing challenges.
As part of a broader national screening effort inspired by the film, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids’ event will serve as a local kickoff encouraging community members to stay active and consider participating in the River Bank Run/Walk. While GCGR is not an official charity partner of the River Bank Run, the organization is inviting individuals and local running communities, including RunGR, the Holland Running Club and others, to connect movement with emotional well-being and community support.
The documentary has received national recognition, including Best Short Documentary at the American Documentary Film Festival, Audience Choice Award at Mountainfilm Festival, and Best of the Fest honors at both the 5Point Film Festival and Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival.
Attendees will hear from GCGR member Rich Benoit, who shared his story at last year’s Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids Gala and continues to inspire others through his cancer journey. GCGR Board Member Brian Picardat will also be in attendance. In addition, a Corewell Health Lifestyle Medicine team member will be present to answer questions related to health, wellness and the benefits of physical activity.
As an affiliate of the Cancer Support Community, the global nonprofit supported through the film’s national “Run for Rob” campaign, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is proud to bring this story to the local community while raising awareness of the free emotional health support available to anyone impacted by cancer or grief.
The event is open to the public, and no prior connection to Gilda’s Club is required.
WHEN:
Monday, April 6
6 p.m.
WHERE:
Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids Clubhouse
1806 Bridge Street NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
DETAILS:
The screening is free and open to the public. Community members, including local running and walking groups, are encouraged to attend. The event will include the film screening, guest remarks and opportunities to learn more about Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids programs and ways to stay active and connected. For more information contact Clare Portinga at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids at cportinga@gildasclubgr.org, or visit Gildasclubgr.org to learn more.
About Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids
Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids provides free emotional healthcare to children, adults, families and friends on any kind of cancer journey or those grieving the death of someone in their life due to any cause. Its comprehensive program, delivered by licensed mental health professionals, meets individuals where they are, when they need it, with a variety of social and emotional support options to choose from, including support groups, educational opportunities as well as healthy lifestyle and social activities.
Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids runs entirely on charitable donations and currently provides in-person, virtual and hybrid support options through its clubhouses in Grand Rapids and Lowell, Mich., and community programs in various schools and community centers. An affiliate of the Cancer Support Community—the largest professionally led nonprofit network of cancer support worldwide—Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is independently owned and locally operated. At Gilda’s we help ensure no one has to navigate cancer or grief on their own. For more information, visit gildasclubgr.org.
About Cancer Support Community
The Cancer Support Community is a global nonprofit that uplifts and strengthens people impacted by cancer. We are dedicated to fostering a community where people find connection, compassion, and knowledge. We provide professionally led support and navigation services, along with social connections and award-winning education—when, where, and how impacted individuals prefer throughout their cancer experience. These resources are available at over 200 Cancer Support Community, Gilda’s Club, and healthcare partner locations as well as online and over the phone—all at no cost. We amplify the voices of those impacted by cancer through research and advocacy and create solutions that break down barriers to care and close the healthcare gap for communities whose members are disproportionately affected by cancer. For more information, visit www.cancersupportcommunity.org.
About REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 25 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.