The bar keeps getting higher for Marathon for a Better Life.
Few believed Saturday’s Marathon would beat last year’s record of $160,000, but the day-long walk set a new mark: $210,000, all of which will go to help Schoharie County cancer patients.
“It’s an amazing record. We never thought we’d change that 1 to a 2,” Marathon President Kathy Diamond said afterwards, referring to the first numeral in the totals.
“We have a big attitude of gratitude.”
Marathon board member Bruce Tryon agreed, noting that the community “helped in a way never witnessed before.
“We are eternally grateful for you.”
The Marathon’s appeal is its simplicity. The organization gives $1,000 to each cancer patient, the only requirement being that the person live in Schoharie County. And the person can use the money for any purpose.
The Marathon this year has given $60,000 to local cancer patients through May.
Held at the SUNY Cobleskill track, the Marathon drew hundreds who raised money all year and enjoyed music, vendors, food and each other on Saturday.
While Marathon teams contributed huge amounts, two donations boosted this year’s total: A $17,000 grant from 100 Women Who Care, and $25,000 from philanthropist Nick Juried.
The top three fundraisers were:
•Team Valarie, $18,494.
•Team Heather, $13,759.
•Wayne’s Warriors, $4,051.
Besides the money raised, the Marathon demonstrated moral support for cancer patients.
“Our goal that no cancer patient feels alone has been met,” Ms. Diamond said.
College President Marion Terenzio was the keynote speaker Saturday, and she noted that the Marathon’s helped 1,800 Schoharie County cancer patients since its start in 1996.
“The meaning of the Marathon is perseverance,” Dr. Terenzio said. “As long as cancer devastates our community, Marathon will be here.”
Ms. Diamond followed by saying that showing up on Saturday and all year for cancer patients was essential.
“We’re here to support angels and heroes in their fight,” she said. “Our goal is to show up for you.”
Marathon board members then presented Angel awards to those who help the organization––See page 13––and then announced the names of cancer survivors, who started the walk around the track.
Caregivers started the next lap before the teams stepped out.
There was music through the day, baseball and pickleball tournaments that benefited the Marathon and a cruise-in in memory of Jeffrey Morissette.