Philly LIVESTRONG® Challenge Participants Raise More Than $2.4 Million for Cancer Survivors
Thousands of walkers, runners and riders participate in the Lance Armstrong Foundation's second annual LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA – August 26, 2007 — More than 4,000 cyclists, runners, walkers and volunteers from 38 states and four countries, packed the Montgomery County Community College campus to take part in the Lance Armstrong Foundation's (LAF) LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia presented by Nike. Participants took part in the event by riding 10, 40, 70 or 100 miles, or by running or walking a 5K.
Participants have been raising funds throughout the year in support of the LAF's mission to inspire, empower and unite people affected by cancer. Through the generosity of more than 25,000 donors, Philly participants have raised more than $2.4 million this year to support LAF research projects, community-based programs and advocacy initiatives. Donations are still being accepted on behalf of Philadelphia LIVESTRONG Challenge participants at www.LIVESTRONGchallenge.org.
"This year alone, more than 600,000 Americans will lose their lives to cancer. That is simply unacceptable," said Lance Armstrong, chairman and founder of the LAF, and participant in today's 40-mile ride. "It's time we did something about the problem and today in Philly we took a step in making cancer a national priority."
More than 73,000 Pennsylvanians were diagnosed with cancer last year alone. Funds raised through the LIVESTRONG Challenge enable the LAF to continue helping cancer survivors in Pennsylvania and across the nation with the physical, emotional and practical challenges of cancer. Since its inception in 1997, the LAF has invested more than $2.5 million in Pennsylvania-based cancer research projects, community-centered organizations and other awards.
Sunday's festivities began with comments by Armstrong. As the time for the ride and 5K neared, participants gathered at the start line, often full of emotion and many with placards displayed on their backs signifying whom they were participating in honor or in memory of. Others had cards that simply stated, "I'm a survivor." In this display of unity, they were joined by supporters enthusiastically cheering, ringing cowbells and otherwise showing solidarity.
"As always, it was truly inspiring to see the depth of dedication and emotion in the Challenge participants and those who came to support them," said Doug Ulman, president of the LAF and participant in today's 5K. "In watching them, you understand the real meaning of the Challenge and the importance of uniting against cancer."
The day continued with Armstrong recognizing Craig Connelly as the winner of the LIVESTRONG Challenge Award. Although Connelly is currently undergoing treatment for a second bout with cancer, he walked the entire 5K with family and friends. A two-time cancer survivor, Craig has worked tirelessly to increase cancer awareness through his blog, www.caringbridge.org/visit/craigconnelly, despite undergoing difficult and sometimes painful treatments.
Participants celebrated their personal LIVESTRONG Challenge achievements at the Post-Event Party where they took part in activities for the whole family, shared survivorship stories, learned about local cancer organizations and enjoyed refreshments and live music from local bands.
About the LIVESTRONG Challenge
The LIVESTRONG Challenge is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's (LAF) signature fundraising event. This annual series of events takes place in cities across the country, enabling anyone to support the LAF's mission to inspire and empower people affected by cancer. The LAF is committed to providing each Challenge participant, from 100-mile cyclists to volunteers and everyone in between, with an experience that leaves them transformed — energized, inspired and empowered to make a difference. This year, in addition to Philadelphia, LIVESTRONG Challenges are taking place in Portland, Oregon on September 30 and Austin, Texas on October 14.
About the Lance Armstrong Foundation
The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) unites people to fight cancer, believing that unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything. We provide the practical information and tools people battling cancer need to live life on their own terms. We take aim at the gap between what is known and what is done to prevent death and suffering due to cancer. We engage the public at large to pursue an agenda focused on preventing cancer, ensuring access to screening and care, improving the quality of life for people affected by cancer, and investing in needed research. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, the LAF is located in Austin, Texas. UNITE at LIVESTRONG.org.
Photos available at www.LIVESTRONGchallenge.org/media | 
