The 2026 ‘Run Across Wisconsin’ is complete. For the last 24 years, the Darlington High School cross country team has been running across Wisconsin from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River, raising money and awareness for the never-ending battle against cancer.
The nearly 163-mile run began on Friday, June 19 and was complete in the afternoon on Saturday, June 20. The team relayed a baton with written names of those whose lives have been touched by cancer. In addition to those names, the team dedicated this year’s run to Raul Roman, a student at DEMS who will be in eighth grade this fall. He was recently diagnosed with a form of leukemia. The money that continues to be raised will go to his family to help with their expenses, and also to the local Friendship Fund to help others in similar situations.
“What made this run extra special was that Raul’s older brother, Balta Roman, ran in honor of his brother,” said Darlington Cross Country assistant head coach Richard Cruz. “It was a great event to get the kids together, which also included some of Raul’s classmates. What also makes this special are the people who will see us during the run. They will honk, ask questions, and make a donation to show their support.”
The efforts of the Darlington Cross Country team helps to bring a glimmer of hope to the community, and people show their support in a variety of ways. Tom and Katie McGuire, for example, display their support by providing a pizza party for the team at the end of Day 1.
“The run itself helps spread awareness, but every year it is impressive to see how it keeps impacting and influencing people,” said Darlington Cross Country head coach Kent Miehe. “We never know until we talk to people, how they’ve been affected by cancer. We don’t know until they decide to share their story with us. Sometimes it’s the story of a loved one, and sometimes it’s their own battle. The event helps bring people together.”
It is the hope that those who supported the Relay For Life over the years will use this opportunity to donate to Raul Roman’s cause in his fight against leukemia.
“The Relay for Life was the foundation that helped bring people together to fight cancer,” said Coach Miehe. “It is important for people to keep coming together to help support that fight. Small communities like Darlington understand this, and they really come together to help someone in need, which is the cool thing that happens.”
The ‘Run Across Wisconsin’ event brings the community together as the Darlington Cross Country teams are backed by many parents, coaches, and volunteers.
Former longtime coach Arnie Miehe, who continues to participate in the ‘Run Across Wisconsin’ event, continues his support of the program. “The Cross County event is in great hands with Kent,” he said.
Approximately 2 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. before next year’s run, according to the National Cancer Institute. For those who would like to show financial support, mail donations to Coach Kent Miehe, 9672 Hwy 81, Darlington, WI. Checks can be made out to the Darlington Friendship Fund.
