The Journey Begins: From Utrecht to the Alps

It all started on a grey Monday morning in Utrecht. Buses loaded with bicycles, gear, and anticipation rolled toward the French Alps. On board: researchers and colleagues from across the country, united by a shared mission, and personal stories that gave this trip deep meaning.

The energy was electric. This wasn’t just a sporting challenge, it was a pilgrimage. A tribute. A commitment to do more.

A Moment of Science and Solidarity: Tuesday Symposium

Tuesday marked a different kind of summit: an Oncode Institute symposium hosted at the base of the mountain. With breathtaking alpine views as a backdrop, our researchers gathered to reflect on what drives their daily work and to reconnect with the purpose behind it.

Talks ranged from cutting-edge research to stories of personal connection to cancer. There was reflection, but also resolve and a great sense of collaboration.

Thursday: The Climb

Then came the day everyone had trained and prepared for. From 5 a.m., the mountain road buzzed with emotion. Cyclists clipped in. Walkers laced up. Some aimed to summit once; others, up to six times, a staggering physical and mental challenge. Together, the Oncode Institute teams pushed upward, step by step, in a shared expression of endurance and hope.

"Every meter we climb represents the combined effort we dedicate to people affected by cancer," says Jan Paul Medema, Head of Institute and Scientific Director at Oncode Institute.

There were tears for those we’ve lost. Smiles for those still fighting. And above all, the unmistakable power of doing something together.

"I am grateful to Alpe d'Huzes for this inspiring, positive (and exhausting) event! Very exciting that we all together managed to raise so much money for future cancer research! I personally loved my bike-walk combination with a mission." says Sarah Derks, Oncode Investigator and medical oncologist at Amsterdam UMC.

"For me, it wasn’t just about the climb (which was tough). It was about being part of something bigger. The atmosphere, the conversations, and the sense of solidarity made it a unique experience. I enjoyed connecting more deeply with the Oncode community outside of our usual work environment. And I was amazed to see how incredibly athletic the Oncode community is!" says Saharla Ahmed, Business Developer at Oncode Institute.

Honouring Progress and Personal Loss

For over seven years, Oncode Institute has worked to decode cancer at its roots, translating discoveries from the lab into treatments that can truly change lives. But Alpe d’HuZes reminded us that progress isn’t just measured in publications or grants, it’s also measured in solidarity.

"I joined Alpe d’HuZes firstly to share a meaningful experience with my colleagues, a team I truly value. It was also a personal challenge: my first sports event, and a chance to push myself. But beyond that, I deeply believe in our mission at Oncode Institute: turning cancer research into real impact” says Valentina Palacio-Castaneda, Business Developer at Oncode Institute. “I wanted to walk not just as a professional, but as someone personally connected to the cause. As I walked, the harsh weather pushed me inward. Every small ache and chill made me reflect on how people with cancer endure so much more, both physically and emotionally. Reaching the summit, I felt proud and deeply connected. To the people facing cancer. To those walking in memory or in hope. And to my colleagues, whose dedication and compassion reaffirmed the importance of what we do at Oncode Institute every day."

The mountain became a canvas for remembrance and determination. The collective climb was a tribute to those living with cancer, to survivors, and to those whose memories push us forward.