Whittingham Family to be honored at hospital's annual run

The Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital is gearing up for its 10th anniversary walk/run on Saturday, April 27 at Calf Pasture Beach. Event proceeds support patient care initiatives, research, clinical trials and extensive support services.

To commemorate the 10th anniversary, Norwalk Hospital will be honoring the late Tony and Jean Whittingham of Stamford, longstanding friends and supporters who were instrumental in the creation of the C. Anthony and Jean Whittingham Cancer Center.

"Tony and Jean provided the seed money required to turn our dream of creating a leading community cancer center into a reality," Dr. Pradip Pathare, medical director, Whittingham Cancer Center and chief, Radiation Oncology, said in a release. "Their generosity allowed us to bring the state-of-the art technology and medical expertise of a national cancer center right to our own community, eliminating the need for patients to have to commute long distances for care. The Walk/Run is an annual reminder and homage to the memories of our founding benefactors,"

The 3K walk and 5K fun run start and end at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with the walk/run starting at 11 a.m.

Register, build a team or donate online at www.norwalkhospitalfoundation.org or call 203-852-2216. Registration is $30 per person and includes a free t-shirt. There is no charge for children under 12.

The walk route is lined with tribute signs that can be purchased for $100. Event sponsorship opportunities are also available; call 203-852-2022.

Community volunteers are needed. To volunteer, contact zarek.mena@norwalkhealth.org. Additionally, there is a High School Teen Board. Local teens can help by hosting fundraisers, building a high school team and recruiting students and friends to walk or run. Teens can also help by distributing flyers and brochures to help get the word out. For information, call 203-852-2022.