In 2011, it is estimated that there will be over 64,000 people in Illinois diagnosed with cancer. This means there aren’t many who can say they haven’t been directly affected by cancer. Places like Wellness Place, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those touched by cancer through counseling, support and education, help make the journey more endurable for patients and families alike. Wellness Place will hold its 2nd annual Community Cancer Walk/Run to raise funds and awareness for their many programs and services offered at no charge to those touched by cancer. The event will take place Saturday, May 14, 2011, when supporters can participate in a 3K walk or 5K “fun run” on campus at Harper College.

Wellness Place knows that a healthy dose of community support goes a long way in the fight against cancer. The races will be followed by a balloon release ceremony to honor those facing cancer, and in memory of those lost. Net proceeds from the event will support the Wellness Place mission of providing education, counseling, and support for those affected by cancer.

Wellness Place believes that treating the mind and body, not just the illness, is the key to coping with and battling cancer. Wellness Place offers counseling, networking and support groups for patients and families, bereavement guidance, educational classes and seminars, and stress management therapies, including meditation, hypnosis, art therapy, massage, and yoga. The organization is 100 percent donation driven and depends on annual events, such as the walk/run to raise funds so it can continue to offer all of these services free of charge.

The Community Cancer Walk/Run is not subject to weather, so come rain or shine! The event will take place at Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road in Palatine. Please use Algonquin Road entrance. Please note the schedule for race times:
•Registration begins: 8am
•5K Run: 9:30am
•3K Walk: 10am

To register, please visit http://wellnessplacewalkrun.kintera.org. Registration fees are as follows (early fee by 5/9):
•Early General (Ages 16 and up): $25
•Early Child (Ages 6-16): $15
•Children (Ages 0-5): Free Admission (no t-shirt)