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Dancing With the Stars Judge Derek Hough Celebrates 40th Birthday by Giving Back
Derek Hough, the Dancing With the Stars pro-turned-judge, marked his 40th birthday on Saturday, May 17th not with a party, but by hosting a fundraiser in Orlando, Florida for children battling cancer.
Hough addressed his fans’ curiosity about his birthday plans in an Instagram story, explaining his involvement with the Runway to Hope fundraiser. “A lot of people are asking me if I’m having a big party…and the truth is I am, but not for me,” Hough shared.
He went on to express his honor and privilege at being able to support the organization and the families it serves. While he intends to celebrate his milestone birthday later, Hough emphasized the importance of using the occasion to give back.
A video taken at the event and reposted by Hough shows the visibly moved star addressing the crowd, urging them to support the “incredible” organization.
Runway to Hope, a Central Florida non-profit, provides direct support and resources to families facing pediatric cancer. The organization works with children’s hospitals, businesses, and philanthropists to fund programs and initiatives for the pediatric cancer community. The annual event has previously been hosted by numerous Dancing With the Stars personalities including Cheryl Burke, Lindsay Arnold, Joey Fatone, Maria Menounos, Nikki and Brie Bella, Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson, Brooke Burke, and Gabby Douglas, among other celebrities.