The Head for the Cure 5k Run/Walk is an annual event that is dedicated to the memory of Chris J. Anthony, a wonderful husband, father, son and brother. In October 2000, Chris Anthony was diagnosed with a
Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumor, and for two years, he battled his
cancer with dignity, grace and unimaginable courage. Chris passed away on February 10, 2003, but to this day, his conviction and passion continues to inspire us all. In his free time, Chris was an avid runner. He had an unmatched competitive spirit and loved the outdoors.
In Chris’ honor and memory, Head for the Cure supports the Chris J. Anthony Fund for
Brain Cancer Research, which directs its efforts to the
Brain Tumor Trials Collaborative (BTTC) at M.D. Anderson
Cancer Center. From daily operations, to ground breaking
brain tumor research, the tremendous generosity and goodwill displayed by the event’s participants has been instrumental in the operations of the collaborative.
"The financial support provided to us by Head for the Cure and the Chris Anthony
Brain Tumor Research Fund has allowed us to establish the collaborative,” said Dr. Mark Gilbert, who oversees the BTTC effort. “This support will also play a major role in providing the resources required for the laboratory studies that are planned for the
tumor tissue from patients enrolled in this trial."
For the first time in the seven-year history of the Head for the Cure Foundation, two 5k Run & Walk events occurred.
The signature Head for the Cure 5k in Overland Park, Kansas, celebrated its 7th anniversary August 30 drawing a record 3,500 runners and walkers, a 46 percent increase over the 2008 5k. Two weeks later, the popular event was introduced in Lawrence, Kansas. The inaugural Lawrence 5k attracted 300 runners and walkers.
The record turnout at the signature 5k Run & Walk helped the Head for the Cure Foundation generate $225,000 in 2009 for the Chris Anthony Brain Tumor Research Fund. More than 70 teams participated with one team raising $19,220.
The Lawrence 5k Run & Walk was highlighted by 77-year-old Dick Wilson, a former University of Kansas track and cross country star who finished the 5k at 38:39.3. More interesting is that Wilson was undergoing chemotherapy treatments for a brain tumor. He was honored with a 2009 Keeping the Faith award from the Head for the Cure Foundation.
Learn more about the 2009 events.
