In honor of World Cancer Day today, Feb. 4, Holland America Line is proud to announce that to date cruise guests and employees of the company have raised more than $4.7 million for cancer support through “On Deck” programming. The current On Deck for a Cause program benefits six international cancer organizations located in the United States, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany and the United Kingdom.

On Deck invites guests to participate in a noncompetitive 5k fundraising walk during every sailing on each of the line’s 13 ships, with hundreds of thousands of cruisers having walked in support of the program since its inception in 2006. Proceeds are distributed among the American Cancer Society, Canadian Cancer Society, Cancer Council Australia, Cancer Research UK, Deutsche Krebshilfe (German Cancer Aid) and KWF Kankerbestrijding (Dutch Cancer Society). Previously the program benefitted Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

“We sincerely thank all Holland America Line guests and employees who have generously donated to On Deck for a Cause and helped us reach $4.7 million to help fight cancer,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Cancer is a disease that touches too many lives around the world. Through On Deck we will continue to help find a cure.”

Guests of all ages are invited to donate $20 to the Holland America Line Foundation, with a minimum of 75 percent ($15) distributed to the organizations. The remaining 25 percent covers program and administrative expenses. On a day at sea, participants join in a 5k walk around the ship’s decks. Guests may walk less or not at all, as they prefer. Participants also receive an On Deck for a Cause T-shirt and wristband and attend a post-walk reception. Depending on the ship, the distance to reach 5k ranges from nine to 12 laps.

I had treatment for breast cancer last year and in November I was fortunate enough to take a cruise on the wonderful Noordam to New Zealand. This trip was a wonderful help in my recovery and the walk gave me a time to reflect on others who may be going through similar experiences and to strive forward with hope surrounded by fellow travellers all supporting this cause. — Sandra Iverson

I walked on a Caribbean cruise in December in honor of a friend battling ovarian cancer. — Dawn Trantham Childers

In eight weeks from now I will do my tenth walk! I am a 6 year survivor of breast cancer and definitely believe in the cause! — Birgit Steiner

In 2016, more than 500 On Deck for a Cause events will be held across the Holland America Line fleet on every cruise, with walks taking place in Alaska, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Bermuda, the Baltic, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Mexico, New Zealand, the Panama Canal, Hawaii and the South Pacific and South America.

We have participated in the walk on all of our Holland cruises – 2 in Alaska, Fall colors and Panama Canal trip! What a great cause and what a commitment from Holland to continue this program. — Libby Renfro

We walked for Pink Ribbon in December 2010 on the cruise through Panama Canal. — Ludwina Van den Brink

Always look forward to this event on our HAL cruises. Such a good cause. Thank you, Holland America. — Mary A. Schlegelmilch Queen

Holland America Line Committed to Giving Back
Holland America Line and its corporate foundation’s charitable-giving programs include cash sponsorships, in-kind donations, free- and reduced-fare cruise donations for nonprofit fundraising events, donations of usable shipboard items around the world, employee volunteerism and other philanthropic activities.

Have you participated in an On Deck walk? Send your photos to info@hollandamericablog.com and you might be featured in Holland America Line’s social media!