Race looks to raise funds for cancer program
LENOX – Ready, set, go is the phrase hundreds of runners will be waiting for this weekend.
The Annual Brock Trot is a community and family-friendly running race with 5k, 10k, and relay events, as well as kid’s races. The event raises funds to benefit the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Lowe Thoratic Oncology Program in memory of Lenox resident Brock Wilkerson.
Mr. Wilkerson was an inspiration to his friends and family long before he was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer at the age of 45.
Family members said he lived life with a unique capacity for kindness, friendship and leadership.
In his community, Mr. Wilkerson served on many local non-profit boards and always had time to be a great friend.
He was especially dedicated to helping coach his daughter’s soccer team and spending time with his family and children.
An avid runner, Mr. Wilkerson completed 13 marathons – three of which he ran with stage four lung cancer.
He loved the camaraderie of running with friends and inspired many to sign up and run races as well.
The purpose of the chairity run is to raise funds and awareness to support research and early detection of lung cancer in non-smokers. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of all cancer deaths in the United States. A significant number of lung cancer patients have never smoked: 15 percent of men and 20 percent of women.
Last year’s races featured over 300 runners and raised over $45,000 for Dana-Farber. Brittany Moriarty, a development officer with the organization, sent a letter thanking the Lenox race.
“On behalf of Dana-Farber and all the patients and families for whom the Institute cares, thank you again for your commitment finding a cure,” said Ms. Moriarty. “We look forward to the race’s continued success in the years to come!”
Posted by Kameron Z. Spaulding
on September 20, 2012. Filed under Community Events,Community News,News,Sports.
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