The 2nd Annual Color Me Green 5K & Caterpillar Dash benefiting TeamConnor Childhood Cancer Foundation raised a record $37,000 for childhood cancer research.
“We are ecstatic that the Color Me Green 5k doubled its runners from last year and increased the amount raised by more than $10,000,” said Julie Armstrong of Dallas, an avid runner and this year’s event chair. “We are always looking to further TeamConnor’s mission and raise money for childhood cancer.”
Hundreds of runners, walkers, families and childhood cancer advocates showed their support by coloring Frisco Square green on Saturday, October 5th. A special balloon release kicked off the 5k in honor of cancer survivors, patients, and those who have lost their lives to the disease.
Ten-year-old honorary hero, Ashley Plitz, is a survivor of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). “I want to raise money for more research of childhood cancer so we can save more kids like me,” said Plitz.
The event included fun activities for the whole family such as face painting, complimentary massages, a balloon artist, a bounce house, and heart screenings provided by Concentra, a sponsor of the event. At the awards ceremony, medals were presented to the top overall male and female finishers, as well as to the top three finishers in various age categories. Prizes were also awarded for the “Greenest” male and female. Miss Texas International, Samantha Riddle, showed her support for the cause and cheered on participants, gave out ribbons to all children crossing the finish line and signed autographs.
Sponsors included Subway Restaurants, Concentra, Joy and Tait Cruse Rumsey Construction, and Wildflower Family Dentistry. Additional supporters were Michael Johnson Performance Center, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Market Street, and Dimples Cupcakes.
Worldwide, a child is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes. In the United States, cancer kills more children every year than AIDS, asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and congenital anomalies combined. However, the National Cancer Institute allocates less than four percent of its funds to pediatric cancer research.
TeamConnor hosts several events throughout the year to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer research including the 3rd Annual Northwestern Mutual Clay Shoot on November 7.
TeamConnor also manages Coins for Kids with Cancer, a national educational program that raises funds for childhood cancer in schools, churches, and businesses.
TeamConnor Childhood Cancer Foundation is dedicated to serving families, building awareness, and raising funds for research to help cure childhood cancer. For more information on TeamConnor events and how you can become a childhood cancer advocate, visit TeamConnor.org or Facebook.com/TeamConnor.