In spite of rainy weather, the 2011 Markey Race for Women's Cancer Triathlon  presented by The Club at Spindletop Hall was a great success. The Sprint Triathlon consisted of 400 meter pool swim, 13 mile bike, and 3.1 mile run.  The Sprint Duathlon was 3.1 mile run, 13 mile bike, and 3.1 mile run.  Lastly there was a 5K (3.1 miles) Fun Run/Walk.  In total approximately 223 participants with 46 in the duathlon and 48 in the 5K run. 

The inspiration for this event is to honor of all of the patients in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the Markey Cancer Center. After a diagnosis of a gynecologic cancer, patients are faced with many questions and decisions. From diagnosis to remission, surgery to chemotherapy, the Gynecologic Oncologist provides the guidance and expertise to help patients through these difficult times and is crucial to overall survival.

This one-patient, one-doctor, one-partnership is the true inspiration for this event and was sparked by a single patient in need of more than just surgical treatment or chemotherapy, she needed supplemental nutrition due to severe malnutrition, something that insurance usually does not cover and that she could not afford.

Thus, this event was established to raise money for patients like her in dire need. Each athlete’s entry fee goes directly to the Markey Cancer Center Gynecologic Patient Advocacy Fund. It will provide for our patients who cannot afford the most basic needs that are beyond treatment, yet critical for survival. For some patients, this may be gas money to travel to chemotherapy appointments, for others, it may be supplemental nutrition.

Thank you to all those who helped fund this vital program.

Photos courtesy of Ruth Adams Photography.