Norwalk, CT - The Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital is gearing up for its 10th anniversary walk/run on Saturday, April 27 at Calf Pasture Beach. Event proceeds support patient care initiatives, research, clinical trials and extensive support services.
Ten years ago, a group of grateful patients and volunteers brainstormed ways to thank and support their beloved physicians and caregivers at the Whittingham Cancer Center. Their vision and determination created a fabulous community-driven event that has grown in size and spirit and raised more than $2 million for patient services. In 2010, “Sally’s Run” was named in memory of Sally Kalin, a Wilton resident who passed away after an eight year battle with cancer.
Original event founders – Front to back – Dr. Richard Frank, Ms. Rita Formisano, Anna Mastrolillo, Cindy Ording, Dawn DelGreco, Ivannia Mena, Walter McLaughlin, Maura Romaine, Anthony Chimento, Zarek Mena. Missing from photo - Nancy Gennaro, MaryEllen Loncto, Francoise Jaffe, Jim DelGreco and Dr. Anthony Coscia
To commemorate the 10th anniversary, Norwalk Hospital will be honoring the late Tony and Jean Whittingham of Stamford, long-standing friends and supporters who were instrumental in the creation of the C. Anthony and Jean Whittingham Cancer Center. “Tony and Jean provided the seed money required to turn our dream of creating a leading community cancer center into a reality. Their generosity allowed us to bring the state-of-the art technology and medical expertise of a national cancer center right to our own community, eliminating the need for patients to have to commute long distances for care. The Walk/Run is an annual reminder and homage to the memories of our founding benefactors,” shared Dr. Pradip Pathare, Medical Director, Whittingham Cancer Center and Chief, Radiation Oncology.
“Having supported the opening of the Cancer Center in 1997, our family is pleased to see its incredible growth over the years, especially the positive impact on patients. A true camaraderie exists among the patients and staff, providing comfort, hope and inspiration to those fighting this disease. Until a cure is found, our hope is that with compassionate care, peaceful surroundings and access to the latest research and technology, patients and families find the journey manageable,” shared Andrew Whittingham.
Michael, Jean and Andrew Whittingham
The 3K walk and 5K fun run start and end at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk. Registration begins at 9 am, with the walk/run starting at 11 am. Guests enjoy a great day of outdoor fun, entertainment by DNR – Fairfield County’s (Almost) All Physician Band, featuring Dr. Richard Frank, the Director of Cancer Research at Norwalk Hospital and Zumba with Emm of Studio M Dance & Fitness. There will also be a donor registry with Be The Match to screen for potential marrow donors to help patients with leukemia, lymphoma and other blood disorders.
Register/Donate
Residents can register, build a team and donate online at www.norwalkhospitalfoundation.org or call 203.852.2216. Registration is $30 per person and includes a free t-shirt. There is no charge for children under 12. The walk route is lined with tribute signs that can be purchased for $100. Signs are a great way to honor or remember a loved one, recognize a special physician or nurse, or promote a local business. Event sponsorship opportunities are also available, please call 203.852.2022.
Volunteer Opportunities
Each year, community volunteers are recruited to serve on the event committee and/or volunteer at the event. To volunteer, contact zarek.mena@norwalkhealth.org. Additionally, there is a High School Teen Board. Local teens can help by hosting fundraisers (car washes, bake sales), building a High School team and recruiting students and friends to walk or run. Teens can also help by distributing flyers and brochures to help get the word out. Interested teens can call 203.852.2022 to learn more.
About Whittingham Cancer Center
The Whittingham Cancer Center is a comprehensive community cancer center offering patients superior care, close to home. Accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer, the center offers a multidisciplinary team approach to ensure patients have the best available treatment options. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, advanced clinical trials, complementary medical therapies, genetic counseling and extensive support service are centralized in one convenient location. Additionally, the center offers early detection and prevention programs, cancer education, navigator program and a survivorship program. To learn more, visit www.norwalkhealth.org
