JAKARTA - On a bright Sunday morning in the heart of Jakarta’s Car Free Day zone, hundreds of runners gathered not just for fitness, but for a cause that touches lives far beyond the finish line. Their goal: to bring hope to children bravely fighting cancer.

In commemoration of World Health Day, celebrated annually on April 7, Prasetiya Mulya University in collaboration with MNC Peduli held a charity event titled “Miles for Miracles”, inviting the public to run a 5-kilometer course while raising donations for children in need.

Proceeds from the event are being directed to Rachel House, a non-profit organization that provides palliative care to children with cancer and HIV from underprivileged families.

“This event is not just about physical activity — it’s about empathy,” said Tengku Havid, Head of CSR at MNC Group. “We’re truly grateful for the enthusiasm shown by participants today, especially knowing that their presence supports children going through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.”

In addition to the run, participants engaged in a health talkshow led by medical experts and closed the event with a community zumba session. The atmosphere throughout the day was one of solidarity, with students, professionals, and families running side by side.

During the event, MNC Peduli also donated hundreds of thousands of medical-grade face masks to Rachel House and to members of the public, as part of its ongoing commitment to public health and protection against disease and pollution.

Ela, Chief Operating Officer of Rachel House, expressed deep appreciation for the support. “These contributions will go directly to our home-based care programs, ensuring that children with life-limiting illnesses can spend their remaining days in dignity, comfort, and surrounded by love,” she said.

Among the runners was Firly, a young professional who joined not only to stay active but to be part of something greater. “This wasn’t just about a morning run,” she said. “It was about standing in solidarity, being part of a cause bigger than myself.”

Jessica, chair of Prasetiya Mulya’s Social Week committee, said the initiative was a first for the university combining sports, charity, and student engagement, and hopes it will become an annual tradition.

Through this collaboration, Miles for Miracles stands as a reminder that even small steps, taken together, can bring meaningful change, for our health, and for humanity.