DERBY – The Annual 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital, 350 Seymour Ave., Derby, will celebrate its 18th year on Sat., Oct. 24.
This non-competitive, family-friendly event begins with day-of registration at 7:30 a.m., and starts at 9 a.m.
Registration is $35 and includes a T-shirt. The registration fees will increase by $5 after Oct. 5. Pre-registration is encouraged at www.griffinhealth.org/5k.
Sponsorship opportunities include recognition and access to more than 400 community and business leaders and cancer survivors and families. Sponsors will be featured on signage at the event, on participant T-shirts, recognition during the event’s opening program, through social media, and the opportunity to have a table to distribute and promote products at the event. For more information about sponsorships, contact Kristy Jelenik at KJelenik@griffinhealth.org.
All proceeds from the 5K will help bring advanced radiation therapy technology to the Lower Naugatuck Valley community, expanding access to leading-edge treatment and ensuring patients receive exceptional cancer care-close-to-home.
The 5K draws walkers and runners from all over the Lower Naugatuck Valley, including participants from Derby, Ansonia, Shelton, Seymour, Oxford, Naugatuck, and all over the state. The event was started by the caregivers of the Cancer Center as a way to raise funds to purchase wigs for patients. The first Walk/Run included over 250 participants and raised more than $25,000, providing opportunity for additional financial support for patients as they undergo cancer treatment. The 5K has since drawn thousands of participants over the years and raised nearly $1 million to help support local cancer patients and families in its 17-year history.
Participants can walk or run individually, form a team with their family, friends and co-workers, and collect pledges and payments. Awards will be presented to the top fundraising team and the top fundraising individual at the event.
Businesses and participants can also purchase a commemorative sign for $100 to honor or memorialize a loved one, or promote a local business at the event.
Individuals and teams can register online at griffinhealth.org/5k. For more information, contact Kristy Jelenik at KJelenik@griffinhealth.org or 203-732-7539.