I say this coming from a personal perspective as well. Although mesothelioma has not touched my life, other forms of cancer have. My grandma struggled against–and eventually overcame– breast cancer, and my Aunt is currently fighting her own battle with cancer. It was for these loved ones that I designed my own fundraiser last year for First Descents.
Anyway, take a look at what Jackie has to say!
For many years now I have been running to support cancer research. Time and again I have been inspired by stories of survival and heartbreak. I cannot imagine a better, healthier or more positive way to support a cause that we can all get behind so easily.
It isn’t necessary to be a world-class runner to participate. Although some races are half marathons or 15ks many are just 5Ks. That is just a little over three miles and most of these races can be either walked or run. With that kind of flexibility anyone can participate.
One of my all-time favorite events is the Miles for Meso race. The Simmons Mesothelioma Foundationcoordinates it and it is an exceptionally well-organized event. I love attending races where the energy level is high and the runners all know that they are doing something good for themselves and for cancer research!
Among the best-known organizations that produce footraces raising funds and awareness is the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Races take place all across the country and most of them are a hoot with plenty of good times and poignant reminiscences. One of the Komen events is actually the first race I ran in support of a cancer survivor. When my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago the prognosis was grim. It was a tough road, but my sister is a warrior and today she trains and races at my side. I still attend Race for the Cure events. They are always a good time and I love to show my support for my sister and others who live with cancer.
Pancreatica Walks and Runs is another stellar organization that sponsors several events on an annual basis. Pancreatic cancer is a serious threat and any opportunity to make the public aware of the dangers and to simultaneously raise funds for research is an opportunity that can’t be missed. This organization produces a number of races of varying lengths from the brief 5k to the all out marathon. It’s a great way to combat a deadly disease.
Many of the organizations that coordinate these races have useful websites where prospective runners can hook up with other enthusiasts to create teams or find training partners. This is a great way to keep motivation high and to stimulate you to achieve greater goals of both the physical and the fundraising variety.
Thanks Jackie!
With the upcoming holiday season, I know we’re all looking for ways to give to others that are less fortunate. Maybe next time you’re searching for that perfect race to run, you can take a look at one of those mentioned above and know that your registration fee is going towards important research! I know I personally have participated in both the Race for the Cure and the Tri for the Cure, and had an absolute blast doing both!
Has cancer touched your life?
Do you consider where the registration fee is going before you register for a race?
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