The "Be a Superhero: Team Sarcoma 5k"
The first "Be A Superhero" 5K was held in honor of Andrew Moore, who was just 8 years old when he was diagnosed with epithelioid sarcoma. Andrew had multiple surgeries and almost a full year of aggressive chemotherapy treatment. His journey inspired his brother, Benjamin, to organize an event in Andrew's honor. The first event hosted more than 350 participants from across the state of Texas and raised more than $10,000. Benjamin continued the successful event for two more years, raising a total of $30,000 for the Initiative's research grants program.
A 2010 News Story in Waco Today
Eighteen-year-old Benjamin Moore says his little brother, Andrew, is a hero. Personally, I think both Moore boys would qualify for that title — Andrew for his battle against a sarcoma cancer, and Benjamin for planning a novel event to raise money for sarcoma research.
On July 17, 2010, the second annual "Be A Superhero: Team Sarcoma 5K," which Benjamin began last year, will kick off at the Waco Suspension Bridge. The event will include a 5K run, a 5K walk and a 1K fun run at 9:15 a.m. The fun run will be led by a cast of superheroes, and participants are encouraged to dress up as a hero, either of the super variety or a real-life hero, such as a firefighter, police officer, etc.
"When I watched my little brother bravely struggle through multiple surgeries and almost a full year of aggressive chemotherapy treatment, I realized that he was my hero," said Benjamin, who graduated from Midway High School in June. "By participating in the Team Sarcoma event, everyone can be a hero to those people who are struggling with this disease."
At the race, awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers in each age bracket of the 5K, as well as to the overall top three winners of the 5K. There also will be a costume contest for all the assembled superheroes. Participants will receive complimentary T-shirts and goodiebags.
In its inaugural year, the Team Sarcoma event had 350 participants and raised more than $10,000 for sarcoma research.
By the way, Benjamin also was overjoyed to report that 10-year-old Andrew is doing extremely well, was able to return to school and at his last checkup, had a clean bill of health. As for Benjamin, about a month after the race, he will be off to study at the University of Notre Dame.