Despite a brisk autumn morning, participants, including children, seniors and even a few dogs, banded together for the Sid Jacobson JCC’s annual Stronger Than Cancer 5k Sunday.
The run benefited the Nancy Marx Cancer Wellness Center. The facility offers cancer patients on Long Island access to exercise, support groups, therapy and more for free. As of presstime, they had raised $114K of their $125K goal.
The field comprised runners from the Town of North Hempstead and the neighboring communities.
Bruce Spenadel, of Manhasset, won the race by a large margin. He finished the race in 21 minutes, 52 seconds — 23 seconds faster than the runner-up, Ed Marcus.
Randy Hight, the director of the cancer center, was the event’s honoree. She began working as a social worker with the Strength to Strength Cancer Wellness Program for Adults in 2007. She was appointed director in 2014.
As the director, Hight has sought to assist people dealing with their diagnoses on all levels. The cancer center has expanded and raised funds to ensure all programs continue to be free and varied.
Hight was instrumental in the establishment of the Jeffrey Marx MD Men’s Cancer Wellness Program, which includes a man-only discussion group for cancer patients. She has also recruited numerous cancer wellness social workers.
The top donor groups include Karlik Krew, Harvey and Gibbs Heros, Team Hight and Team Small, who have all raised over $14K each. If interested, one may donate through the JCC’s website.
