Support head and neck cancer patients at SWFL 5K

FORT MYERS, Fla. – To help raise awareness for head and neck cancers, the nonprofit 21^st Century C.A.R.E. foundation is hosting the 3^rd Annual 5K Run/2-Mile Walk to support head and neck cancer patients in Southwest Florida. The event will take place on Saturday, April 11 at Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive. Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson will be kicking off the event.

The idea of an awareness walk in Fort Myers came about when Stacey Brill, a speech pathologist who helps head and neck cancer patients re-learn how to swallow, noticed that many of her patients were unable to afford copays and other costs associated with cancer treatment. She started this event to help such patients. The 5K Run/2-Mile Walk coincides with Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, observed in April.

All funds raised at the 5K Run/2-Mile Walk will help provide head and neck cancer screenings, treatment, follow-up care and financial assistance to patients in Southwest Florida. The event will feature awards for certain age groups, refreshments and chance drawings. The first 100 registered participants will receive a gift bag with a t-shirt and other gifts.

The registration fee for adult runners and walkers is $25. Youth runners and walkers (ages 5-17) can register for $15. There are no fees for children 5 and under.

Race day registration will be from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. The 5K Run/2 Mile Walk will begin at 9:30 a.m. Refreshments, awards and drawings will follow the walk.

For more information, visit: http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1128559