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GKNM’s ‘Run for Little Hearts’ Sees 4,000 Runners Unite to Give Hope to Ailing Underprivileged Children

SimpliCity News Team · 1 min ago

Coimbatore: As the city woke up to a bright Sunday morning, thousands of footsteps came together for a cause that went far beyond the finish line. More than 4,000 people took to the streets of Coimbatore on Sunday for the fourth edition of ‘Run for Little Hearts 2026’, a charity marathon organised by GKNM Hospital to raise funds for the treatment of underprivileged children battling congenital heart defects and childhood cancers.

The sight of children running alongside adults, families and senior citizens carried a special message of hope, as participants came together to support young lives facing serious health challenges. The marathon transformed an early-morning sporting event into a collective expression of compassion, with every step dedicated to helping children access the medical care they need.

Organised by G. Kuppuswamy Naidu Memorial Hospital (GKNM Hospital), the annual marathon began at the Mani Higher Secondary School grounds in Pappanaickenpalayam and concluded at the same venue. Coimbatore City Police Assistant Commissioner Gokul Krishnan flagged off the event.

Speaking to media, Dr. Ragupathy Veluswamy, Chief Executive Officer of GKNM Hospital, said the marathon was organised to extend support to children affected by congenital heart defects and childhood cancers.

He noted that September is observed as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, while World Heart Day is marked on September 29, making the event particularly significant in raising awareness about these conditions.

The fourth edition of the marathon featured three broad categories designed to encourage participation across age groups and fitness levels. The 1 km and 3 km runs were open to children, families and senior citizens, offering an opportunity for people of all ages to participate in the charitable initiative.

The 5 km race was organised for participants aged 12 to 18 and adults aged 18 and above, while the 10 km marathon was open to participants aged 18 to 39 and those aged 40 and above. The 5 km and 10 km categories offered cash prizes, with a total prize pool of ₹80,000.

The marathon, recognised by the Coimbatore District Athletic Association, was supported by several private organisations and financial institutions.

Highlighting the impact of previous editions, Dr. Ragupathy Veluswamy said around 3,000 people had participated in last year's marathon, and funds raised through the event had helped 42 children undergoing cancer treatment.

This year, participation crossed 4,000, reflecting the growing support for the initiative and the cause it represents.

Beyond the distance covered and the finish lines crossed, 'Run for Little Hearts 2026' stood as a reminder that a community can come together to make a difference in the lives of children who need it most. For the little hearts waiting for a chance at healthier lives, every step taken this morning carried a message of hope.

GKNM Hospital Coimbatore Marathon Run for Little Hearts Charity Run Childhood Cancer Awareness World Heart Day Congenital Heart Defects Coimbatore News

GKNM’s ‘Run for Little Hearts’ Sees 4,000 Runners Unite to Give Hope to Ailing Underprivileged Children

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