The inaugural "Paulette Steps Toward Cancer Wellness" 5K run/1-mile walk on March 27 attracted more than 350 participants and raised more than $24,000 for colorectal cancer programs and research. Sponsored by CentraState Medical Center, in conjunction with the Freehold Runners Club, the event at Monmouth Battlefield State Park is named in honor of dedicated runner and rectal cancer survivor Paulette Stallone, 45, of Manalapan.
Diagnosed with rectal cancer in February 2009, Paulette continued running throughout chemotherapy and radiation treatments, and resumed training as soon as possible following surgery. "I realized my life wasn’t stopping because of cancer and I learned to take back control," she says. Less than two months before the run/walk, Paulette underwent thoracic surgery to remove a cancerous nodule on her lung. But true to form (and with her surgeon’s approval), she ran the entire 5K course.
The funds raised will be donated toward two studies to be conducted by the CentraState Cancer Program team to research and report experiences of women who have survived colorectal cancer for more than three years and to examine the effects of moderate exercise during cancer treatment. Funds will also be used toward future projects to raise cancer awareness within the communities that CentraState serves.
Special thanks to DJ Dave, photographer Monique Marra, and the Colts Neck High School Navy Junior ROTC Corps (who presented the colors prior to the start of the race)—for donating their time and services. Thanks also to all the volunteers who helped make the event such an overwhelming success.
