Ambar Ramirez
Words by Ambar Ramirez
Often called the month of love, February brings plenty of ways to celebrate — Galentine’s parties, pajama and pizza nights, and, of course, Super Bowl gatherings. But perhaps the most unforgettable way to embrace the spirit of the season is by running a mile down Jax Beach in nothing but your underwear — preferably in pink or red. And on Feb. 8, that’s exactly what about 100 Jacksonville locals did.
The Cupid’s Undie Run is a charity event that blends fun and philanthropy to raise awareness and funds for neurofibromatosis (NF), a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves.
The Cupid’s Undie Run began in 2010 in Washington, D.C. when a group of friends dropped their pants and ran through the cold to raise money for research to help end NF. Inspired by one of the founders’ families, the event continues to raise critical funds and awareness for the Children’s Tumor Foundation.
Since its inception, Cupid’s Undie Run has raised over $25 million for the Children’s Tumor Foundation to fund vital NF research. This funding supported breakthroughs like the discovery that MEK inhibitors shrink NF tumors, leading to the FDA’s 2020 approval of the first-ever drug for NF1 patients. More treatments are now in the pipeline, advancing toward approval and through clinical trial stages. This year, Jacksonville’s chapter aimed to raise $30,000 and wasn’t far behind, bringing in $10.2K. But this event isn’t just about the money.
Cupid’s Undie Run measures success through tangible impact and community engagement. Fundraising totals are crucial, helping to drive critical NF research and support initiatives. Beyond dollars raised, awareness is gauged through participant growth and engagement with educational materials. Stories from attendees who leave feeling more informed and inspired to support the cause are what set this charity apart, and those personal stories are just as meaningful as financial milestones. The awareness and engagement are what bring the Cupid Undie Run closer to its ultimate goal — a world without NF.
And it’s hard to ignore a mission when it’s carried out by people running through the streets in nothing but their underwear. This year, I had the privilege of experiencing the creativity of both the event and its participants. Men sported red speedos and wings, women rocked bright tutus and bras—because when it’s for charity, anything goes, right?
For the rest of February, cities all across the U.S. band together for the largest pantless party, that also happens to be for a great cause. If you want to get involved check out cupids.org for more information.
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