Polish blogger Łatwogang staged one of the largest charity marathons in YouTube history. Over nine days of nonstop streaming from Warsaw, he raised about $67 million to help children with cancer and their families. The final total exceeded the initial goal by more than 50 times, turning a local initiative into an event of international scale.
The defining feature of the marathon was the same song played on repeat throughout. It was the rap track Bedoes 2115, addressed to cancer as an opponent. One of its central figures was 11-year-old Maja, who is going through her third relapse of the disease. Her words appear in the song: “I’m still here… and I’m laughing in your face.” For many viewers, this story became a symbol of courage and hope.
The campaign was supported by well-known athletes and musicians. Footballer Robert Lewandowski donated about $250,000 and recorded a video singing the song. The initiative was joined by goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, tennis player Iga Świątek, Olympic medalist Vladimir Semirunniy, who donated his medal and shaved his head in solidarity with children undergoing treatment, as well as Coldplay frontman Chris Martin. Their participation helped draw additional attention to the project.
The funds collected have already begun to be used for their intended purpose. More than $8.2 million has been allocated to treatment for 84 children, the purchase of medical equipment, and support for families. The organizers stress that the project’s goal is not only to raise money, but also to remind people that cancer is not a death sentence, and that the support of those around you can play an important role in the fight for life.
