9/4/2013

Last year in the U.S., more than 15,000 women died from ovarian cancer, including 800 from Pennsylvania. To raise awareness, celebrate survivors and remember those lost to the disease, the Pittsburgh Chapter of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) will hold its 13th annual “Run/Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer” on Sunday, Sept. 8, at the North Park Boathouse. More than 3,500 people are expected to attend this year’s event, which is presented by Magee-Women’s Hospital of UPMC and UPMC Passavant.

“Magee and UPMC Passavant are honored to support the run/walk this year,” said Robert Edwards, M.D., director of the Ovarian Cancer Center of Excellence at Magee. “Each year, approximately 25,000 women are diagnosed with this devastating disease, and our area chapter of NOCC provides unparalleled support for patients and their families. We are grateful for the resources and assistance this organization provides our patients, and we look forward to a wonderful turnout on Sunday.”

“Year after year, our run/walk demonstrates that ovarian cancer is more than a woman’s disease,” said Mary Urban, NOCC Pittsburgh chapter manager. “Families, friends, co-workers and medical professionals form teams that honor the women in their lives who suffered from the disease. This event also provides the opportunity for the general public to get involved with an initiative that is gaining visibility locally and nationally.”

This year, a race component has been added to the event. The chip-timed, 5-mile run enhances the health and wellness aspects of the event and expands the awareness efforts of the chapter.

The run/walk festivities are family friendly. Well-behaved, leashed dogs also are welcome. Survivors will enjoy a special continental breakfast, handmade gifts and a free raffle. Participants can bring photos of loved ones lost to ovarian cancer for display on the Wall of Courage at the Memory Tent. Runners also will be treated to a post-run yoga cool down and massage therapy. All participants can learn how to be their own health advocate at the Wellness is Prevention Expo.

On-site registrants will pay $35 for the chip-timed run and $30 for the walk. Registration begins at 7 a.m. The 5-mile run begins at 9:15 a.m. and the 1- and 5-mile walk will begin at 9:30 a.m. Free parking and shuttle service is located at Trader Horn from 6:30 a.m. until 12:15 p.m.