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When you see a zebra, what do you notice first? Its stripes. No two patterns are alike—just as no two journeys with neuroendocrine cancer (NETs) are the same. The zebra has become the international symbol of NET Cancer Awareness because it reminds us of the rarity and uniqueness of this disease, and of the strength it takes for every patient to keep moving forward.

For over 20 years, the Neuroendocrine Cancer Awareness Network (NCAN) has been walking alongside patients and caregivers, offering not just education and resources, but also community, compassion, and hope. Founded in 2003 to shine a light on a disease too often overlooked and misdiagnosed, NCAN has grown into a lifeline for thousands. From expert-led conferences and support groups to podcasts, hotlines, and free educational resources, NCAN is there—step by step, stripe by stripe.

Each fall, our community comes together for something special: Strides for Stripes. This annual walk isn’t just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of strength, connection, and hope. Participants proudly wear zebra-striped shirts that say to the world: we are here, and we are stronger together.

The funds raised during Strides for Stripes make it possible for NCAN to continue offering life-changing programs, including:

• Annual regional NET Patient Conferences with top NET experts
• A 365-day patient/caregiver-run hotline (9am–9pm EST)
• Monthly podcasts featuring NET experts, patients, caregivers, and advocates
• Bi-monthly live Q&A sessions with NET experts
• Monthly blog posts on Living Well with NET Cancer
• Monthly virtual patient support groups via Zoom
• Local in-person NET support groups across several states
• A robust YouTube Channel with 10+ years of NET expert presentations
• Free new-patient information packets mailed on request

This year’s walk kicked off on September 1st and continues through the end of the year—giving everyone the chance to participate, whether virtually or in person. You can walk solo, join with friends, or build a team to show your stripes in honor of a loved one. Every step you take makes a difference.

Because when you walk with NCAN, you’re not just raising awareness—you’re carrying hope forward.

Register today, lace up, and walk with us. Together, we’ll turn stripes into strength and keep walking toward a brighter future for NET patients and their families.

And always remember: If you need us, we are HERE.