Run broadens scope of awareness
Screening, education offer hope for colorectal cancer
Cathy Eng, M.D., associate professor of gastrointestinal medical oncology, treats patients with colorectal cancer, a disease responsible for approximately 50,000 U.S. deaths per year according to American Cancer Society statistics. Kimberly Tripp, director of acute care services administration, lost a grandparent to the disease. With this common bond, they founded the Sprint for Colorectal Oncology Prevention and Education (SCOPE) 5K Run. Held each March, which is colorectal cancer awareness month, SCOPE shares a message of hope and emphasizes the importance of screening and education in preventing and surviving colorectal cancer.
Since its inception in 2006, the event has grown almost tenfold. More than 2,000 registered for the 2013 event, which included a kid’s 1K, survivor’s fair and post-race party with food, live music and awards, raising approximately $80,000.
“People who participate in the SCOPE 5K are passionate about their involvement,” says Eng. “For survivors, it means a great deal, and we’re grateful for the continued support and growth.”