Photo Credit: Greg Capillupo
SONOMA, Calif. (Jan. 20, 2016) – A little rain could not dampen record-setting fundraising efforts at the 5th annual John’s March Against Stomach Cancer at Sonoma Raceway on Saturday, Jan. 16.
More than 200 people turned out under gray skies to participate in the fundraiser, which generated an event record of $17,629 for No Stomach For Cancer (www.nostomachforcancer.org). Walkers, runners and even dogs enjoyed a spin around the 2.52-mile, 12-turn road course on foot during the event, which is held in honor of John Cardinale, the long-time Sonoma Raceway spokesman who passed away in 2013 after a two-year battle with stomach cancer.
John’s March has raised more than $67,000 over the past five years and is the only major fundraiser for gastric cancer on the West Coast.
“Because of John’s March, we have been able to fund important programs and are one step closer to achieving our goal of transforming stomach cancer into a manageable disease and ultimately find a cure,” said Jonathan Florin, executive director of No Stomach For Cancer. “Without the support of individuals and organizations like Sonoma Raceway, we would be unable to pursue this global mission.”
Participants ranged from competitive runners to families, including children on bikes and in strollers. In addition to the traditional road-course circuit, the raceway also offered 5K and 10K distances. Participants were also encouraged to sign the Memory Wall in honor of those affected by gastric cancer.
“What John’s March means to us is bonding with a community, being able to talk, walk and share with people who are and have been in similar journeys in raising awareness for stomach cancer, and remembering our lost loved ones, which gives us a sense of hope,” said Napa’s Caroline Saenz, whose husband, James, died from gastric cancer last year at the age of 40.
No Stomach For Cancer is a non-profit group that works to increase awareness and education about stomach cancer, provide a support network for affected families and support research efforts for screening, early detection, treatment and prevention of stomach cancer.
Donations can still be made in honor of this event at www.crowdrise.com/JohnsMarch. Sonoma Raceway will host its 6thannual John’s March Against Stomach Cancer in January 2017. For more information or to get involved, contact Diana Brennan at dbrennan@racesonoma.com.
