REI Co-op Studios Unveils Global Release of Award-Winning Documentary “The Life We Have” in support of National Cancer Awareness
Film highlights employee’s devotion to daily runs despite 20-year cancer battle
Feb 18, 2026
REI Co-op Studios captures the extraordinary beauty of a life lived on the edge of mortality with the global release of its award-winning short documentary, The Life We Have, which follows a man’s devotion to daily runs during his two decade-long battle with stage 4 bone and lung cancer. The studio’s release includes a nationwide “Run for Rob” screening tour with regional run clubs and raising funds for nonprofits including Cancer Support Community. The Life We Have is live now on REI.com and the co-op's YouTube channel.
The Life We Have follows REI employee Rob Shaver who has battled stage four cancer for more than two decades. Rob has run at least one mile every day for over three years through rain, pain, and relentless perseverance, transforming the simple act of running into a testament to strength, discipline, and hope. The Life We Have explores the questions at the heart of the human experience: What gives life meaning when time feels fragile? How do we keep moving forward when suffering feels endless?
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The Life We Have, directed by Sam Price-Waldman and produced by Wondercamp, is the recipient of Best Short Documentary at American Documentary Film Festival, the Audience Choice Award at Mountainfilm Festival, Best of the Fest at 5Point Film Festival and Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival, as well as a Vimeo Staff Pick.
To complement the film, run/walk screening events have been hosted in New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The tour features a “Run for Rob” day on February 20 where runners and walkers of all abilities are encouraged to go outside and experience the positive impact of movement. The tour continues in Denver on March 1 and additional cities in the coming weeks. A call for donations throughout the film schedule will support the nonprofit Cancer Support Community (www.cancersupportcommunity.org/donate) that operates to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer.
“The process of making The Life We Have was a profound exercise in discernment — discerning what is real, what is important, and what is meaningful,” says director Sam Price-Waldman. “Rob often told me, ‘If I could do this anonymously, I would. I just want to help others.’ His words became our North Star, reminding us that his story is, in many ways, a story for everyone.”
“The Life We Have is a celebration of Rob’s choice to keep moving forward and the love from those around him,” said Paolo Mottola, REI divisional vice president of marketing, content, community and partnerships. “Beyond watching the documentary, please join a local run event and help raise awareness about the impactful work of Cancer Support Community across the country.”
“At the Cancer Support Community, we are committed to ensuring that everyone impacted by cancer has access to connection, compassion, and trusted support,” said Sally Werner, CEO, Cancer Support Community. “This collaboration expands awareness of the free support, navigation, and education services available through our global network and online programs, helping us reach more individuals and families when they need us most. Together, we are strengthening the power of community in cancer care, because community is stronger than cancer.”
“Run for Rob” day participants can join the brand’s Strava Challenge at https://www.strava.com/clubs/122521. Donations can be made at www.cancersupportcommunity.org/donate. The film is streaming at REI.com. For upcoming screening tour dates and details, visit TheLifeWeHaveFilm.com.
The film was produced by Davis Goslin Love, with cinematography by Greg Balkin and Sam Price-Waldman, and executive produced by Paolo Mottola, Joe Crosby and Hanna Boyd.
For more information about the film please visit the website https://www.thelifewehavefilm.com or follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thelifewehavefilm.
About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 25 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.
About Cancer Support Community
The Cancer Support Community is a global nonprofit that uplifts and strengthens people impacted by cancer. We are dedicated to fostering a community where people find connection, compassion, and knowledge. We provide professionally led support and navigation services, along with social connections and award-winning education — when, where, and how impacted individuals prefer throughout their cancer experience. These resources are available at over 200 Cancer Support Community, Gilda’s Club, and healthcare partner locations as well as online and over the phone — all at no cost. We amplify the voices of those impacted by cancer through research and advocacy and create solutions that break down barriers to care and close the healthcare gap for communities whose members are disproportionately affected by cancer.