Sainte-Croix Residents Rally Behind Dassos Association, Funding cancer Research in Memory of David Ausset
SAINTE-CROIX, FRANCE – A local association born from grief is making a national impact in the fight against cancer. Dassos, founded in 2015 following the death of David Ausset at age 38, is channeling personal loss into tangible support for medical research and patient care.
The institution was swiftly established by Ausset’s childhood friends, Eddy Estripeau and Cédric Andrieu, fueled by a desire to honor his memory and advance the science that offered Estripeau a chance at life.”I had three chronic diseases on my side,” Estripeau recalls, remembering a period of prolonged illness. ”If I got up, I already had in mind to create an association. on the death of David, we said to ourselves with Cédric, we go.” Estripeau credits medical research for his own recovery, solidifying their commitment to supporting further breakthroughs.
Dassos has sence organized numerous fundraising events, including long-distance cycling trips across France and challenging climbs in the Spanish, French, and Italian mountains.A especially memorable moment came during a Toulouse Football Club (TFC) match, where the association’s efforts were recognized before a stadium full of fans.
Despite facing personal health challenges – Estripeau notes his respiratory capacity is at 55% – the group perseveres. “Admittedly, you always have to do a little more, but there is always this message of hope behind.“
Their dedication has yielded significant results. Funds raised will support a 3-day trek in the Pyrenees next year specifically designed for individuals living with the disease, a feat garnering attention from national media outlets, including a feature on “Hugodecrypte.” “This gives the association a lot of light,” says Estripeau.
Since 2016, Dassos has hosted an annual tribute hike in Sainte-Croix, Ausset’s hometown, attracting an average of 500 to 600 participants. The hike has expanded to haute-Garonne, in Noah, with similar success. These events generate thousands of euros each year, directly funding patient equipment and medical research.
Looking ahead, Dassos has a full calendar, including another cycling stage in April, the Sainte-Croix hike in May, and a comedy show in Noah, alongside preparations for the Pyrenees trek with patients. The association continues to build momentum,driven by a powerful legacy of friendship and a relentless pursuit of hope.
