Distinctive run traversing the US benefits the Hope Lodge program.
Two accomplished endurance athletes, Ramon Bermo and David Grier recently set out on a unique run across the United States with one starting on the West Coast and another on the East Coast. They aim to run a total of 3,000 miles until they meet in the center of the nation at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge center in Omaha, NE. This expedition, Crossing the Nation for Cancer Survivors, is an event meant to symbolize the cancer patient journey – from diagnosis to survivorship.
These DetermiNation Endurance Series athletes aim to raise $500,000 for the Hope Lodge program to recognize the 500,000 free night stays Hope Lodge communities offer to cancer patients and their families each year, saving them $50 million in out-of-pocket costs. During this eight-week journey Ramon and David each will cover on average 31 miles a day to represent the 31 Hope Lodge communities nationwide.
ACS Director of Development, Endurance, Ramon kicked off the event on April 2 from the Hope Lodge Jerome L. Greene Family Center, in New York City, NY, pictured above, while David started his run from the San Francisco Bay area.
Stops will include Hope Lodge communities in Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore, MD, Cleveland, OH, Salt Lake City, UT, Iowa City, IA, and Rochester, MN, and end with a celebration on or near Cancer Survivors’ Day at the Hope Lodge in Omaha.
To amplify Crossing the Nation for Cancer Survivors, supporters are encouraged to join a virtual event and challenge themselves to reach 3.1 miles a day or 31 miles per week.
This endeavor is not about how fast they can go or how long it will take, rather it is a test of endurance and determination. Their goal is to bring awareness to the numerous Hope Lodges across the country and the crucial support they give to those receiving cancer treatment.
Meet the athletes – including David’s running partner Andy Stuart – read their daily dedications to cancer survivors, track their routes, follow them on social media, sign up to join them for a few miles or join a virtual challenge, buy swag, and lend your support at https://runsignup.com/crossingthenation.
