Shine Like Susan 5K set to raise money for colon cancer
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Jul. 7—This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Jack Farrell about the upcoming Shine Like Susan 5K, which raises money for the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer.
Residence: Clarks Summit
Professional background: I am a rising junior and president of the class of 2025 at Abington Heights High School. I am a runner on both the cross country and track teams, and I had always wanted to organize a 5K because of the time I've spent cheering for my dad or competing myself.
Title: Founder and race director of Shine Like Susan 5K
Q: Tell us a little about Susan Burke. A: Susan Burke was a mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, friend, runner, coach, trainer and most importantly, a fighter. She fought colon cancer for six years during which she continued to inspire and encourage all who she met. I never met her but was really impacted by the response I saw to her passing. The runners, coaches, her neighbors (some of whom are my friends who are part of the race organization), my parents ... everyone had a story (like Susan's) and was inspired in some way by her. When I learned of the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer that she and her family had established to help ease the financial burdens of those who face colon cancer, I knew it was an opportunity to do something meaningful and to help bring people together to take action. Susan was great in every aspect of her life and never failed to motivate others.
Q: Who is the 5K open to?
A: All are welcome to participate. The day will begin with a fun run for children of all ages, and then the (5K) race will start. Runners and walkers will navigate the course, which has been modified from last year to eliminate running up the massive big hill. The course is a combination of grass and trail surfaces. There will be trophies for the overall top three places in both male and female categories as well as medals for each age group's top two finishers in men and women categories. The age groups are: 13 and younger, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70 and older.
Q: What else will be on hand at the event?
There will also be raffle baskets, so make sure to get your tickets. Additionally, we will provide water, bananas and granola bars to all participants at the finish line.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
All proceeds will go directly to the Susan Burke Foundation for Colon Cancer. Since the foundation was founded last July, over $10,000 has been distributed to people in our area as they fight their battles with colon cancer. Last year, we raised over $24,600 for the foundation and hope to continue to add to that number this year.
Q: Why is community support crucial to this cause?
The success of both the race and the foundation is completely dependent upon the involvement and generosity of our community. Colon cancer, and cancer in general, is impacting the lives of people we all know and love. This is why we call the race Shine Like Susan because it now is our turn to shine and inspire and contribute to our world and community. For us, this 5K is our attempt to make a difference and bring people together.
This race would not be possible without the hard work of my committee members. J.T. Healey plays a vital role in organizing information and always being by my side to overcome any challenge. The Pentasuglio triplets — Brock, Hunter and Tate — also are a big reason this race has expanded as their dedication is unmatched. The Abington Heights track and field/cross country team, along with Coach Passetti, are the reason the course is in great shape. I can't help but be grateful for all of my friends from all different areas, sports and backgrounds, who have taken time out of their summer to spread the word and make this race happen.
Contact the writer:
570-348-9100, x5228.
