The 5th Annual Mesothelioma Race for Justice 5K was a hybrid in-person and virtual race for a great cause. Virtual racers from around the world have the month of September to run or walk the race, while in-person participants gathered at Shelter A & B of the Lake County Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills, Illinois.
We had 150 participants, and proceeds from the race were donated to the Meso Foundation. This year we raised over $17,000 for a total of over $65,000 raised for Mesothelioma Research since 2018!
“I was so excited to be back in person and connect with our meso supporters,” says Mirela Kopier, MRFJ race director.
We are honored to work with the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, the nation’s only nonprofit charitable organization that is a collaboration of patients and families, physicians, advocates, and researchers dedicated to ending mesothelioma and the suffering caused by this cancer. The Meso Foundation firmly believes resources exist to find a cure, especially given the human toll, the legal, moral, and economic impact and implications of asbestos, and the overwhelming compassion and support of the meso community. It’s mission is to offer hope and support to patients and families through education, assistance, and emotional support while funding research projects around the world, raising awareness, and advocating for the public and private sectors to join the fight against this global tragedy.
“The proceeds from today’s race will help go towards funding research grants,” said Julie Powers, executive director of the Meso Foundation. “We’ve invested in 115 research grants, and we’re working to try and find better diagnosis, better treatment and hopefully a cure for this terrible disease that affects so many families. Every year thousands of patients, families, and caregivers find their way to the foundation, and it’s through people like you that we’re able to provide things like support groups and educational material; we help people navigate their journey.”
Participation this year broke records! Using the hybrid approach, we had over 150 participants in multiple states! The race continues to bring together those affected by mesothelioma with a common goal of ending the devastating effects of mesothelioma and fueling research efforts. We can’t wait for 2023 and thank all our partners and supporters for making this year historic.
“Seeing the evolution of the Mesothelioma Race for Justice 5K since its first year in 2018 to this year’s race has been absolutely incredible,” says Madelynne Drescher, public relations and MRFJ race associate. “Seeing the participation grow during years where we hosted it remotely to this year’s hybrid format has truly demonstrated the intimate impact that Mesothelioma has on families and communities — no amount of distance could keep our runners from showing up and out for those affected. My heart is truly warmed by the impact we were able to make this year for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation with the help of our sponsors, donors, and participants. I am so excited to see these efforts continue and stay strong in our fight against this awful disease.”
To view this year’s race photos and honor ceremony, please visit https://vogelzanglaw.com/mrfj/