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Colleen Clyder: Running For a Cure
9-YEAR BRAIN TUMOR SURVIVOR TO RUN MARATHON, SUPPORT BRAIN TUMOR RESEARCH
Nine years ago, Colleen Clyder heard the devastating words: “You have a brain tumor.” The diagnosis, received by approximately 52,000 Americans each year, irrevocably changed her life.
Today, she is training for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon – her first long-distance race – in the hopes of raising money for brain tumor research, and ultimately, finding a cure. She will join nearly 100 runners on the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) Runners Sharing Hope Team at the 2008 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 12th.
My brain tumor diagnosis “was the most challenging time in my life,” said Clyder, 24, of Chicago. “But thanks to incredible research, doctors, family and friends, I am alive and well today."
The ABTA Team hopes to raise $150,000 for the organization’s annual Research Awards program. This year, ABTA will award $2.6 million to talented researchers working to decode the mysteries of brain tumors. In addition, the Des Plaines, Ill.-based organization will provide approximately 1.3 million services, resources and information to brain tumor patients, their families, and the medical professionals who care for and treat them.
“Colleen’s success and courage are inspiring,” said Elizabeth M. Wilson, ABTA executive director.
“ABTA’s research initiatives and patient services are only possible through the commitment and support of thousands of individuals, like Colleen, who host and or participate in ABTA fundraising events throughout the U.S.” Wilson said. “We are extremely grateful to and proud of Colleen, and the other members of the ABTA Runners Sharing Hope Team."
Clyder is joined on the ABTA Team by her boyfriend, Jeremy Fischer, and his mother, Donna Fischer, who also is a brain tumor survivor. Clyder and Jeremy Fischer are featured in an Energizer Bunny commercial, which will air on NBC 5-TV prior to the marathon. The Energizer Bunny commercials promote the marathon and the causes of individual runners.
Click here to view Colleen's Energizer Bunny Video
Clyder hopes to participate in future runs and events that will allow her to raise money, share her story, and build awareness of the disease and the urgent need for more research.
“Running a marathon is going to be the biggest accomplishment in my life thus far,” said Clyder, “not only because it will prove to me what I am capable of, but most importantly, it will allow me to help others as I have been helped.”
To support the Runners Sharing Hope Team, visit the ABTA Web site at http://www.active.com/donate/abta2008. To sponsor Colleen Clyder, type in her name under “Find a fundraiser to support.”
Since 1973, the American Brain Tumor Association has been a leader in brain tumor research, support and education. For more information, call 800-886-2282, or visit the ABTA Web site at www.abta.org.
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8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Ste 550
Chicago, IL 60631
Phone: 773-577-8750
Fax: 773-577-8738
CareLine: 800-886-2282
E-mail: abtacares@abta.org