Griffin 5K walk/run raises $77K to benefit the Center for Cancer Care in Derby

Participants in this year's 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital./ Contributed photo

DERBY - More than 400 participants raised an event-record $77,000 at the 14th Annual 5K Walk/Run to Benefit the Center for Cancer Care  on Sept. 24.

“We are grateful to all the 5K Walk-Run sponsors and participants for giving us the tools to provide strength and comfort for individuals undergoing cancer treatment,” said Griffin Health President and CEO Patrick Charmel. 

“All the funds raised today help patients overcome the financial obstacles that can adversely affect their treatment and recovery. This includes purchasing patient-centered medical technology, providing assistance with transportation, clothing and nutritional supplements, and helping to offset the cost of utility bills.”

The event featured awards for the top individual fundraiser and top team fundraiser selected from the 410 participants and 29 teams. 

The winner of the William C. Powanda Memorial Award for the top fundraiser was Stephanie Ventimiglia, of Derby, who raised more than $6,000. Ventimiglia’s team, Lou’s Legacy, raised $10,000 and won the Team Synergy Award as the top fundraising team.

Alex Romanovsky of Derby 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 Jefferson Radiology, Renewal by Anderson, Rand Whitney, Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut, All About You, Coordinated Transportation Solutions, Enterprise, Drs. Sudipta and Bindu Dey, Smilow Cancer Hospital, D’Addario Auto, R.D. Scinto, Ion Bank Foundation, Forest Construction, Centek Engineering, Precision Aerospace, and Morizio Law Firm. In-kind sponsors included Big Y, BJ’s, Coca-Cola, Market 32, Rockland Bakery, ShopRite, Stani Dairy, Stop & Shop, and Unidine.

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 Hospital.