SPOKANE, WA— On Monday, family members of those who lost their lives to cancer celebrated the return of the Boulevard Race, a four-mile run through downtown Spokane.
The race, which takes place this Sunday, raises funds for the Community Cancer Fund, a Spokane-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families.
Former NFL and WSU quarterback Mark Rypien was honored on Monday for his foundation, which supports local children battling cancer. Rypien’s son passed away after an 18-month fight with brain cancer at just three years old. In 2019, the Rypien Foundation merged with the Community Cancer Fund to bolster efforts in pediatric cancer fundraising.
Rypien was joined by Joe and Polly Schindler, who created the Anna Schindler Foundation in memory of their daughter, Anna. The foundation offers lodging and services for families traveling to Spokane for cancer treatment.
Both Rypien and the Schindlers were the first to sign the “I AM.” wall, a feature of the Community Cancer Fund’s campaign. The wall will be displayed during Washington Trust Bank Runner Check-In on Saturday, September 21, at Gonzaga University’s McCarthey Athletic Center. Racers are encouraged to sign the wall and leave messages of support for those affected by cancer.
Jon Neill, Executive Director of the Community Cancer Fund, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “It’s just one more incredible reminder of why we’re doing events like The Boulevard Race. We’re doing this to support the cause and to help those that can’t help themselves in the fight against cancer.”
The Boulevard Race will kick off in the University District this Sunday. Registration for walkers, joggers, and runners remains open. You can find more details here.
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