Cancer is the leading cause of death of Stutsman County residents ages 45-84. In addition, despite access to state-of-the-art technology, women in Stutsman County are less likely to receive a regular mammogram than women across the state.
Because of this, and because so many residents are affected by cancer, R.M. Stoudt hosts the annual Running of the Pink each year on the first Saturday in June. This year, Running of the Pink is set for June 2.
All proceeds benefit the No Excuses Program and the local Women’s Way Chapter for breast and cervical cancer screenings as well as education and other needs. In its 11-year history, R.M. Stoudt has raised more than $100,000 for women’s health including cervical screenings and mammograms.
“Casey Stoudt, Doug Klaudt and Jason Holstad were the masterminds behind the run, which began with 60 participants,” shared Tara Kapp, RM Stoudt BDC Coordinator. “This event has not only grown in size, but also in importance to the community. The run is something held near and dear to our employees’ hearts, especially this year. We lost our teammate and dear friend, Barb Gefroh, to breast cancer on New Year’s Eve. We’ve always known how vital the battle against cancer is and this year, we’re fighting even harder in Barb’s name.”
Proceeds help pay for new technology in women’s health. The money also helps individuals who could not otherwise afford mammograms and cervical cancer screenings. Because of Running of the Pink, support is available for those women as part of the annual No Excuses program.
Jamestown Regional Medical Center hosts No Excuses every year, in conjunction with Central Valley Health. That day, women can receive a basic screening as well as their mammogram, all in one quick visit. Plus, if women have any financial barriers, proceeds from Running of the Pink cover those needs. In 2017 alone, No Excuses helped more than 20 women. This year, because of popular demand, JRMC and Central Valley Health scheduled a summer No Excuses. This year, the event is set for June 11-12
About one-third of Stutsman County women over age 40 reported said they had not had a mammogram in the last two years, according to the North Dakota Department of Health.
“This is troubling because if caught early, the treatment options for breast cancer are so much better,” said Lisa Jackson, Jamestown Regional Medical Center’s foundation director. “This is the difference between a small surgery to remove a lump, or a large surgery to remove the full breast.”
Last year, more than 600 people participated in ROP, with over 550 registrants and dozens of volunteers, raising $17,500 for the cause.
“Casey Stoudt pays the bill for all event costs so that all donations can stay local and go directly to the cause” said Kapp.
Running of the Pink is both competitive and non-competitive and is open to everyone. It offers a 5K run, walk and 10K run. Early bird entry is $15 for students and seniors and $20 for adults through May 19. After May 19, entry fees are $25 adults and $20 students and seniors. Registration includes a Running of the Pink t-shirt.
In addition to the run, there will be two sets of corn-hole boards auctioned off to raise additional funds. The corn-hole boards will feature the 11th Annual Running of the Pink logo.
To register, visit www.stoudtcars.com or www.facebook.com/runningofthepink.