DanceBlue Sponsors 5K Run for the Kids

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LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 31, 2007) − Although the 24-hour dance marathon is still months away – scheduled Feb. 22-23, 2008 – the University of Kentucky is mobilizing support of DanceBlue 2008, which will benefit UK HealthCare's Pediatric Oncology Clinic.

The first public and one of the largest fundraising events of the DanceBlue season is the 5K Run for the Kids, slated for 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at Commonwealth Stadium.  Runners of all ages and abilities are encouraged to support DanceBlue. The entry fee is $16 in advance and $18 for race-day registration. Visit the DanceBlue Web site and click “Documents” to obtain a registration form, or send an e-mail for more information.

Last spring, after a full academic year of fundraising and 24 hours of non-stop dancing, 465 UK students celebrated raising $241,515, nearly double the 2005 total, on behalf of the Golden Matrix Fund. The fund provides families who have a child with cancer with emotional support and financial aid; supports pediatric cancer research at UK; and funds improvements to the facilities and services for pediatric cancer patients.

In addition to fund raising, student organizations are involved with the Adopt-A-Family program, which pairs students with the families of pediatric cancer patients. Students provide emotional support for the families and organize fun activities for the patients and siblings.