FAQs

Big Climb is more than a stair climb – it’s an inspiring & moving experience. As you take on each step you will be uplifted by inspirational stories of survivorship and the impact LLS is making in the fight against blood cancers – all while your community cheers you on. Every 9 minutes someone loses their battle with blood cancer. For them, we pause on the 9th floor to honor & remember those we’ve lost and we continue to climb for a future where patients not only survive but thrive. As you reach the victory flight, and you feel the accomplishment of completing your climb, you will be celebrated by fellow climbers and honored heroes as you receive your finisher medal. Your accomplishment is a big step towards progress for blood cancer patients. 

REGISTRATION FEE

Registration is FREE for all participants up to 30 days before your event. After the 30-day mark, registrants pay $50 to make the Big Climb experience special in every city – separate from your fundraising.

 

FUNDRAISING

Is there a fundraising minimum?
Big Climb’s fundraising commitment is $150 for adults and $50 for kids and teens. As Big Climbers are a committed crew, we know your passion will get you to the threshold in no time. And LLS will be there with tools to help you at every step. Get started today!

Where do my donations go?
All donations from Big Climb help support the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: to cure all blood cancers and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

When is the fundraising deadline?
To receive a Big Climb Tech T-shirt, you must reach $250 raised prior to the event day. You also have the opportunity to continue to fundraise after the event to further support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to cure blood cancer. The more your raise, the more you are rewarded. Check out the recognition page for more information.

 

GENERAL EVENT

What is the age minimum allowed to climb?
All participants must be 8 years of age on the day of Big Climb. There will be no exceptions to this rule.

How do teams work?
When you sign up as a team, you are signing up to climb at the same time slot. Your team captain will submit preferences, when prompted by LLS, for climb times and the whole team climbs during that time. No exceptions.

Can I change my start time?
No. All start times are final. No exceptions.

 

DAY OF EVENT 

What time does the event start?
The event doors will open at 9:00 am. 

Can I register on event day?
Registration will be available online starting from 5:00 am until 2:00 pm. Those who register day of may have to wait for an available wave time and may have to climb separately from requested participants or teams.    

Where can I park?
Street Parking is available on E. Broad Street and Chestnut Street. Park on any level in garage. Entrance is on East Side of Building (100 S. Clinton Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604) with overhead and driveway loop in front of building. 

Can I take public transportation to/from the event?
Big Climb Rochester is best accessible by car. We recommend carpooling to help minimize traffic. 

Can I bring anything with me during the climb other than my phone?
A fanny pack is permitted, but no backpacks are allowed on the climb route. 

Is there a bag check area provided?
Yes, there is a bag check area.  

What time should I arrive?
30-45 minutes prior to your assigned start time. Please take into consideration the time it will take you to find parking. 

Where do I line up for my climb time?
Announcements will be made 15 minutes prior to your start time. 

How many steps will I be climbing?
Participants will climb 538 steps. 

Where are water stops?
There will be water stops placed throughout the climb. 

Will food be available at the event?
Light snacks will be available in Base Camp. Food and Beverage will also be available at Summit Climb for all climbers. 

Can my friends and family wait for me at the finish line?
Friends and family can wait in the lobby or can be part of the cheering squad on the 24th floor. Please reach out to Tiffany.Rollek@lls.org if interested in cheering. 

What is the Summit Club?
Once reaching Summit Climb, you will be cheered on for finishing but also for your accomplishment in raising money for a cure for blood cancers. Summit Club is time to receive your medal, take pictures and enjoy some food drink. 

What do I do when I’m done climbing?
There will be an elevator for all participants to go down from the finish once they have completed the climb. 

Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, dogs and other animals are not allowed at the event.