The purpose of this race is to honor those who are battling, surviving or have lost their fight against lung cancer. In August 2008, Meaghan Latone passed away after a courageous, determined fight. She was 37 and loved by her two wonderful children, a devoted husband, family and many, many friends.
In November 2007, she wrote an essay, published in the Democrat & Chronicle that raised awareness about lung cancer, such as its lack of research funding. Lung cancer also continues to be the single biggest cancer killer, often diagnosed at a very late stage with a five-year survival rate of 15%. Meaghan wanted us to know that "lung cancer is not just for smokers anymore," as she had non-smoker's lung cancer. She hoped for a rainbow ribbon that would encompass all cancers, and promote equality in research that would lead to higher survival rates for lung cancer. Meaghan fought the fight and inspires us to fight for her cause. Together we can make a difference.
We had our first Meaghan's 5K race and walk on April 12, 2008 and drew 800 participants-families, athletes, survivors-and raised almost $60,000 that went directly to Rochester's Wilmot Cancer Center for lung cancer research. The money raised in 2009 will continue to be used for local lung cancer research and will be divided between Wilmot and Lipson Cancer Centers.
Thank you to our sponsors who so generously make this event possible.
Gail Zicari Wagner
Race Director
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