American Cancer Society continues 'Alone Together' virtual 5K series

Join the American Cancer Society for the concluding parts of its socially distant “Alone Together” 5K series on May 9 and 16. Participants from across the country will walk, run, roll or hike in a virtual 5K series to show cancer patients and their families that, “We are still there for them, even when we’re apart.”

Due to the pandemic, many of the American Cancer Society’s spring and summer events were postponed or cancelled.

“Cancer won't stop; neither can we,” said Mariah Turk, senior manager of community development for the American Cancer Society’s WNY market. “We need everyone’s help to keep fighting.”

How to get involved in the virtual 5K series:

•A one-time donation of any amount registers one for the entire virtual 5K series. Link to register: https://acsedwc.ejoinme.org/aboa5k

•Once registered, one will receive an email confirmation that will direct them to all of the virtual 5K resources (packet, bib, etc.) 

•Each Saturday, there will be a different theme for race day. Have fun with it! One won't be judged on creativity, so just make sure to get out and complete the 3.1 miles in any way (run, walk, bike, roller blade, hike, etc.)

•Flood social media with support for cancer patients and their families! Suggestions of what to post will be included in the virtual 5K packet. Be sure to tag the American Cancer Society.

• Instagram: @AmericanCancerSocietyEvents
• Facebook: Alone Together Virtual 5K Series!
• Hashtag: #5kAloneTogether #CancerHasntStopped

In early April, co-chairs from the American Cancer Society's Capital Region associate board of ambassadors saw a need for fundraiser to take the place of spring and summer events that would not be happening due to the pandemic and started the “Alone Together” virtual 5K.

A press release said, “Participants enjoyed it so much we decided to expand, with support from volunteers and staff, leading the charge across Upstate New York. Our shared goal: to fill the Upstate NY map with 5K participants who will be staying active and doing whatever they are able to do in the fight against cancer and showing cancer patients everywhere that we are not stopping the fight against cancer, not even during this global pandemic.”

During this unprecedented time, the American Cancer Society is serving isolated and anxious cancer patients – answering tough questions and solving complex problems related to access to treatment.

“Luckily, being a national organization with a strong local presence we are able to continue our commitment to be there for cancer patients and their families in our own community whenever when they need us, how we are doing that just looks different right now,” Turk said.

In March, when the pandemic hit, the ACS received more than 25,000 calls to the 24/7 cancer helpline and 80% were COVID-19 related. As the pandemic continues, the society continues to provide comprehensive information about increased risk and precautions necessary for patients and their families to consider during these challenging times. This lifesaving information can be accessed 24/7 on www.Cancer.org or by calling 1-800-227-2345.

For event details and to register for the “Alone Together” virtual 5K, visit https://acsedwc.ejoinme.org/aboa5k.