Testimonial by Bart De Backer for 'Kom op tegen Kanker'

Source : website 'Come on Against Cancer' - September 28, 2022

'Focus on the stories'

You put all your energy into Fight Against Cancer, and suddenly the disease becomes very close and personal. It happened to Bart De Backer. His colleague Jurgen and good friend Wouter got pancreatic cancer shortly after each other.

'In the beginning, we raised money with our corporate band Bitter Sweet - the Barry Callebaut Band. This was followed by a team for the 1000km. Meanwhile, ten years on, we have eleven teams for the 1000 km and eight for the 100km run, with people from all departments. That's how we raised 80,500 euros. Our biggest event is the annual chocolate sale in the parking lot, but we also offer a personalized gadget for sale every year. Everyone helps raise money. This is an important principle: first the pennies, then the sporting highlight. Due to the illness of our colleague Jurgen and my friend Wouter, it suddenly became more personal in 2020. During the corona crisis, Jurgen still fully participated in the chocolate distribution for the residential care centers, but shortly afterwards he died. Wouter underwent major surgery, with a major impact on his quality of life. I ran a marathon for them and participated in the 100km run in Koksijde on September 5. I gave the buttons to Jurgens widow and Wouter afterwards. May I give one more message? I hope that the events of Kom op tegen Kanker continue to revolve primarily around people and their stories. The speed and mileage are secondary issues.'

Music, sports, cooking & wine

Bart De Backer is :

• Passionate music fan (concerts and festivals at home and abroad, Pearl Jam, U2, Bruce Springsteen...)

• passionate musician (drums and accordion)

• passionate athlete (marathons, 5 x solo full 1000 km for Fight Against Cancer)

• cooking enthusiast

• wine lover

Photo : Joost Joossen