2026 RECIPIENT
DJ THEORINE
Every dollar raised — through registration, direct donation, or a bid at the finish line auction — goes directly to DJ and his family.
AN 8-YEAR-OLD FIGHTING OSTEOSARCOMA
HIS STORY
DJ is an energetic, fun-loving 8-year-old who loves trains, digging in the dirt, and being the best big brother to Anthony and baby Lilia. In March 2026, what started as leg pain turned into a diagnosis of osteosarcoma — bone cancer on his fibula.
DJ has faced chemotherapy, and more treatment ahead. Through it all, his one request has been cards — because even in the middle of fighting cancer, DJ's first thought is always about others.
This year, every runner, donor, and auction bid goes directly to DJ and his family. No overhead — pure community support.
LATEST UPDATE
FROM DJ’S MOM
July 2026 — Surgery recovery and the road ahead.
Next Milestone
~4 Rounds of Chemo Remaining
DJ underwent surgery on July 2nd to remove the tumor. The surgeons feel very good about getting the tumor removed, but they said it was really stuck into the surrounding tissue. The surgery was very tedious but successful. The tumor covered the top 5 inches of DJ's fibula, so the surgeons cut out about 6 inches of the bone to be safe. The fibula is often referred to as “spare parts” — used to reconstruct other bones in the body when necessary — so it didn't need any reconstruction. They just sewed up the tendons and ligaments.
The first few days after surgery were pretty rough trying to manage his pain. However, the doctors told us that after a few days, kids just want to be kids — and that's exactly what he did. He begged to go outside in the 90–100 degree temps in his wheelchair because he just wanted to be outside. He figured out how to sit on the ground to play in the sandbox and even had a water gun fight with his grandmas. He has done really well getting around with his walker or “bum shuffling” from room to room.
Besides his movement, it's so good to see glimpses of DJ returning back to his normal, happy self. He even has an appetite and has been asking for food!
DJ will resume chemotherapy on July 21st to help kill off any remaining cancerous cells in his bone marrow or bloodstream. He has about 4 rounds of chemo left, with each round taking about 5 weeks. We are still waiting on the pathology report to hear about how well the chemo worked so far. DJ is also part of a study medication that slows blood vessel growth to starve tumors. We know it's recommended by doctors, but chemo is really hard on DJ's little body — so we're enjoying the fact that he's feeling really good for now.
Via Venmo
Recommended — Zero Fees
100% of your donation goes directly to DJ — no processing fees deducted. Send any amount to our Venmo.
@bearcanyontrailrun on Venmo →Via UltraSignup
Official Race Platform
Donate through the official race platform. A small processing fee is deducted — the remainder goes directly to DJ.
Donate on UltraSignup →HOW TO DONATE
SUPPORT DJ
The auction opens approximately one week before race day — around October 3rd — so you can browse and place bids whether or not you plan to be at the start line. Bidding stays open through the event on October 10th.
All proceeds go directly to this year's recipient. Three packages are live now — more items will be added as donations come in.
BID TO MAKE AN IMPACT
AUCTION ITEMS
Specialized Bike Package
A complete Specialized package — full bike (size Large) and a matching Specialized helmet (size M/L). The perfect cross-training companion for runners, easy miles on two wheels that keep your legs fresh between trail days.
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Traeger Tailgater™ Pellet Grill
Wood-fired flavor that travels. This portable pellet grill smokes, bakes, and sears up to 450°F on 300 sq. in. of cooking space, with easy-fold legs built for tailgates, camping, and post-race cookouts.
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Momentous Performance Package
A curated collection of Momentous performance supplements, protein powders, and nutrition products built for endurance athletes. Fuel your training and recovery all season.
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Rapid Reboot Recovery Package
A full hot/cold therapy recovery system from Rapid Reboot — two leg sleeves and one arm sleeve for targeted compression recovery. Your legs will thank you after race day.
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Lola Original Blanket
The world’s softest blanket, crafted from Lola’s innovative and signature faux fur. Lola is the original luxury blanket that was designed to deliver unmatched softness, quality & durability.
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Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L
A 22L everyday backpack in Bay Leaf with dedicated compartments for your laptop, sweaty gear, and a water bottle or shake. Built to keep your whole day organized, from trailhead to office.
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Lululemon Everywhere Backpack 22L
Lululemon's bestselling 22L backpack in Black, with an internal laptop sleeve and side water bottle pockets. It ticks every box for school, work, travel, and the gym.
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Wine Lovers' Package
Two bottles for your next celebration: a crisp 2024 JUSTIN Sauvignon Blanc from California's Central Coast and a bold 2022 Pendulum Red from Washington's Columbia Valley, presented in a woven basket. Winner must be 21+.
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Autumn Leaves Watercolor by The Painted Rain
A framed watercolor of fall leaves in full color, painted by Sarah of The Painted Rain, a local artist right here in Sandy. A little piece of the Wasatch autumn to hang on your wall year-round.
View Details →More Coming
We're still collecting donations. Check back as race day approaches.