16th annual 5K raises more than $50,000 for Center for Cancer Care at Griffin

Contributed photo

DERBY - More than 400 participants raised over $50,000 at the 16th Annual 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care on Sept. 28.

“Today, you are doing your part to help improve the health and well-being of others,” said Griffin Health President and CEO Patrick Charmel. 

“Since the Center for Cancer Care opened its doors in 2008, more than 5,000 of our family members, friends, and neighbors have been diagnosed with cancer and more than 300 additional individuals are diagnosed with and have to face the challenges of cancer every year. The Center for Cancer Care is here to help those individuals with highly advanced, person-centered care, and treatment, crucial nourishment, and free health education and programs that empower them to recover and enhance the quality of their lives.”

The event featured awards for the top individual fundraiser and top team fundraiser selected from the 17 teams. 

The winner of the William C. Powanda Memorial Award for the top fundraiser was Stephanie Ventimiglia, of Derby, who raised nearly $3,000. Team Aversa, which participates in the event in memory of Dr. John M. Aversa, Sr. won the Team Synergy Award as the top fundraising team, raising approximately $5,000. 

Tracey Pittman, of Ansonia, was the winner of the Make It Happen Spirit Award, which recognizes an individual who exhibits tireless effort and support for the event.

The Walk/Run was sponsored by CED Technologies, Jefferson Radiology, CT Dermatology, Physicians Alliance of Connecticut, Astra Zeneca, Ion Bank, Smilow Cancer Hospital, Stelray, Drs. Sudipta & Bindu Dey, Teamsters Local 1150, All About You!, Star 99.9 FM, Regional Water Authority, Centrix, Unidine, and Stani Dairy. 

Donations are still being accepted at griffinhealth.org/5k or via mail to The Griffin Development Fund, 130 Division St., Derby, CT 06418.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.