FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Carol Brennan-Smith, Communications Manager
203 852 2350 or carol.brennan-smith@norwalkhealth.org
10th Annual Whittingham Cancer Center Walk and Sally’s Run
Set for April 27, 2013
Norwalk, CT, April 9, 2013 --The Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital is counting down to
its 10th anniversary walk/run on Saturday, April 27 at Calf Pasture Beach. Event proceeds support
patient care initiatives, research, clinical trials and extensive support services.
Ten years ago, a group of grateful patients and volunteers brainstormed ways to thank and support
their beloved physicians and caregivers at the Whittingham Cancer Center. Their vision and
determination created a fabulous community-driven event that has grown in size and spirit and raised
more than $2 million for patient services. In 2010, “Sally’s Run” was named in memory of Sally Kalin,
a Wilton resident who passed away after an eight year battle with cancer.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary, Norwalk Hospital will be honoring the late Tony and Jean
Whittingham of Stamford, long-standing friends and supporters who were instrumental in the
creation of the C. Anthony and Jean Whittingham Cancer Center. “Tony and Jean provided the seed
money required to turn our dream of creating a leading community cancer center into a reality. Their
generosity allowed us to bring the state-of-the art technology and medical expertise of a national
cancer center right to our own community, eliminating the need for patients to have to commute long
distances for care. The Walk/Run is an annual reminder and homage to the memories of our founding
benefactors,” shared Dr. Pradip Pathare, Medical Director, Whittingham Cancer Center and Chief,
Radiation Oncology.
“Having supported the opening of the Cancer Center in 1997, our family is pleased to see its
incredible growth over the years, especially the positive impact on patients. A true camaraderie exists
among the patients and staff, providing comfort, hope and inspiration to those fighting this disease.
Until a cure is found, our hope is that with compassionate care, peaceful surroundings and access to
the latest research and technology, patients and families find the journey manageable,” shared
Andrew Whittingham.
The 3K walk and 5K fun run start and end at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk. Registration begins at 9
am, with the walk/run starting at 11 am. Guests enjoy a great day of outdoor fun, entertainment by
DNR – Fairfield County’s (Almost) All Physician Band, featuring Dr. Richard Frank, the Director of
Cancer Research at Norwalk Hospital and Zumba with Emm of Studio M Dance & Fitness. There will
also be a donor registry with Be The Match to screen for potential marrow donors to help patients with
leukemia, lymphoma and other blood disorders. Last year, a match was made during the Walk/Run
event and the donor went on to donate marrow to save a baby’s life.
Register/Donate
Residents can register, build a team and donate online at www.norwalkhospitalfoundation.org or call
203.852.2216. Registration is $30 per person and includes a free t-shirt. There is no charge for
children under 12. The walk route is lined with tribute signs that can be purchased for $100. Signs are
a great way to honor or remember a loved one, recognize a special physician or nurse, or promote a
local business.
About Whittingham Cancer Center
The Whittingham Cancer Center is a comprehensive community cancer center offering patients
superior care, close to home. Accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on
Cancer, the center offers a multidisciplinary team approach to ensure patients have the best available
treatment options. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, advanced clinical trials, complementary
medical therapies, genetic counseling and extensive support service are centralized in one convenient
location. Additionally, the center offers early detection and prevention programs, cancer education,
navigator program and a survivorship program. To learn more, visit www.norwalkhealth.org
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Photo Captions
The late Tony and Jean Whittingham
Original event founders – Front to back – Dr. Richard Frank, Ms. Rita Formisano, Anna Mastrolillo,
Cindy Ording, Dawn DelGreco, Ivannia Mena, Walter McLaughlin, Maura Romaine, Anthony
Chimento, Zarek Mena. Missing from photo - Nancy Gennaro, MaryEllen Loncto, Francoise Jaffe, Jim
DelGreco and Dr. Anthony Coscia