“Thanks to them, I’m still here today”: how Paul Renson raised €40,000 for Ghent University research

For his birthday, Paul Renson raised more than €40,000 for the Arne Lannoy Fund, which supports brain tumour research led by Professor Tom Boterberg. The Renson CEO speaks openly about his fundraising initiative. “I was given only two weeks to live. Thanks to their medical and psychological support, I’m still here today.” 

If you drive along the E17 in Waregem, you immediately notice: this is Renson territory. The striking buildings along the motorway have been under the leadership of Paul Renson since 1982. He is the fourth generation to head the family business, which under his leadership has grown into an international player. For once, the conversation is not about healthy indoor climates or sustainable outdoor experiences. Through his fundraiser, Renson shows that business leaders can be both successful and selfless. He welcomes us at the headquarters, with a cup of tea in one hand and a book in the other. 

First of all: congratulations on your 65th birthday. How did you celebrate?

“Thank you. This summer we held several small celebrations. That way I had the time to speak to everyone personally and genuinely thank them.” 

You asked guests not to bring presents, but to support your fundraiser instead. Why did you choose the Arne Lannoy Fund?

“The fund supports Professor Tom Boterberg’s research into brain tumours. I have known him for almost 25 years now. I am incredibly grateful to him and wanted to give something back.” 

Why is that?

“In 2002 I was diagnosed with a brain tumour that had already progressed and spread. At first, they told me I had only two weeks left. I normally lead a busy life, but suddenly my world stood eerily still. At the same time, a different world opened up. I will never forget how neurosurgeon Jacques Caemaert, Professor Boterberg and other staff at Ghent University Hospital supported me. They explain everything in detail and take the time to really listen to you. Despite the difficult circumstances, they were able to reassure me. They gave me hope for a good outcome. That psychological support is perhaps as important as the medical care. Thanks to them, I’m still here today.” 

Professor Boterberg’s research also focuses on brain tumours in young people. Was that part of your decision?

“Absolutely. In my work I often think about how we can make the future better. Youth are inherently part of that: they are the future. Unfortunately, tumours also occur in young people. By supporting Arne’s fund, we increase the chances of better treatments in the future. With my story, I hope to encourage young people: there is always hope, no matter how bleak the outlook.” 

€41,240 was raised, thanks to 124 donors. Did you expect that?

“Not at all. I didn’t know what to expect, but this generosity is exceptional. I would like to sincerely thank all donors again through this message.” 

Was the fundraiser mentioned during your birthday celebrations?

“Yes, absolutely. That’s when you really notice how many people have been directly or indirectly touched by the disease and how much support you can give each other. They were glad to contribute in that way. Even people who couldn’t attend made donations.” 

Was another goal of your action to make the disease more discussable?

“Certainly. If someone is sick, please be reachable. That feeling of closeness is literally a matter of life and death. By opening up myself, I also want to show: you are not alone. That’s why I also brought the book Comforts by Dirk De Wachter today. In the way he describes his own cancer treatment, he gives you a perspective on the disease that is both familiar and expansive. Even today, I still draw a lot of strength from stories like that from fellow sufferers.”