Cancer is something that has affected many of the people we know. Thankfully, there are many organizations locally and nationally that raise money for cancer research and are inspiring and encouraging so many to continue to fight. One of those organizations is the ME STONG Foundation.
ME STRONG was founded by Linda Ryan and her four close friends after Linda’s cervical cancer diagnosis. The inaugural ME STRONG 5k is a highly spirited event that ignites a ray of hope for community members who had been touched by cancer. Each year the 5k has grown in popularity. The ME STRONG community has raised more than $700,000 which is given to those battling cancer in need of financial assistance and to support groundbreaking research in search of a cure.
The starter’s pistol will fire at 8 a.m. on Saturday, February 2 on Indiana Ave signaling the start of the 2019 ME STRONG 5k. The annual charity race to raise money to fight cancer saw almost 4,000 participants last year and hundreds of supporters lining the race path. This year, Swann Real estate is an official sponsor of the 5K and we will have our own team running and walking in the event.
Last year’s official race starter, Eleanor Stephens, has a team running in her honor again this year. Eleanor Stephens is a warrior fighting for victory against neuroblastoma. The community has rallied around Eleanor and her family, and there is expected to be a large turnout of those running and raising awareness for this precious little girl and her family. For the latest information about Eleanor, visit her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Warriorprincesseleanor.
Whether it is Eleanor or a family member or friend, most have a connection with someone that has battled cancer. The ME STRONG 5K is a great way to honor them. You don’t have to be a runner to participate. In fact, several walk the race path.
Online registration for this year’s race closes at midnight on January 30. Race packets may be picked up at DeLand Pilates, 119 N Woodland Blvd, from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. the day before the race. Day of packet pick up is at 6:30 a.m. prior to race start at 8 a.m.
To register for this year’s race, visit https://www.mestrong.net.