Sean Shearon raises awareness and donations for breast cancer
research/programs
DETROIT, Aug. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sean Shearon wanted to make a
difference and do his part to end cancer, as well as honor the victims and
survivors of this horrific disease. He set a goal of walking 18 marathons in
18 days -- The Victory Walk -- to raise awareness and dollars for breast
cancer research and programs at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, in
Detroit. He began his journey in Sault Saint Marie, Michigan, on July 27 and
will conclude his Victory Walk Thursday, Aug. 14, at approximately 6 p.m., at
Campus Martius, in Detroit.
(Logo:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071106/KARMANOSCANCERINSTITUTELOGO )
Shearon, age 43, is a resident of Windsor, Ontario, and teaches at the Roberto
Clemente Learning Academy in southwest Detroit. Shearon's mom Bette was
originally from Michigan and worked many years at the J.L. Hudson's Company in
downtown Detroit. Shearon saw his mom battle breast cancer and he himself was
only 12 years old when he was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer that
formed in the soft tissue and muscle of his shoulder. He underwent extensive
chemotherapy and radiation treatments. In 1984, his mother lost her battle
with breast cancer.
"I can't stand by and watch more people go through what my mother and I went
through," said Shearon. "I'm walking to make a statement and to show that it's
not beyond us to do all that we can to raise awareness and funds for a cure. I
challenge everyone in Michigan and elsewhere to join me in support of cancer
research so we can help end this despicable disease."
Shearon was hoping to raise at least $1 from everyone in Michigan. To date,
approximately $3,200 has been raised in online donations.
"The Karmanos Cancer Institute is honored to be the recipient of The Victory
Walk," said Nick Karmanos, vice president of development. "Sean Shearon's
commitment in the fight against cancer, specifically to further breast cancer
research and programs that may one day eliminate this horrendous disease, is
unprecedented. Having lost my mother to breast cancer, it is both personally
and professionally gratifying to know that one person's determination to make
a difference can touch so many lives. Sean's Victory Walk and his compassion
to help others sets an example for all of us."
Media and the public are invited to cheer Sean on as he concludes his
victorious Victory Walk.
WHAT:The Victory Walk Finale
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 14, at approximately 6 p.m. Brief program at 6:10 p.m.
WHERE: Campus Martius Park, on Woodward, in downtown Detroit
WHO:Sean Shearon, cancer survivor and creator of the Victory Walk; Nick
Karmanos, vice president, Development, Karmanos Cancer Institute; and family,
friends and supporters.
Here are some other Aug. 14 locations where the public can help show their
support and encourage Sean on his victory lap. (Approximate times)
6 a.m.: Sean will begin his walk going east on 12 Mile near Drake Rd., in
Farmington Hills, by William Tyndale College
9:30 a.m.: 12 Mile, just east of Evergreen, in Southfield
11:30 a.m.: Main Street at 12 Mile, in Royal Oak
1:15 p.m.: Woodward Ave. south of 9 Mile, in Ferndale
3 p.m.: Woodward Ave. south of McNichols, in Highland Park
5:30 p.m.: Woodward in front of the FOX Theatre, in Detroit
6 p.m.: Approximate arrival time at Campus Martius, in downtown Detroit
Visit www.thevictorywalk.com for more information or to make a donation.
About The Victory Walk
The Victory Walk is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer
prevention and money for a cure. Thanks to generous donations of services and
supplies, 100% of all money donated will go toward breast cancer research at
the Karmanos Cancer Institute, a nationally recognized cancer research
facility.
About The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Located in mid-town Detroit, MI, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is
one of 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in
the United States. Caring for more than 6,000 new patients annually on a
budget of $216 million, conducting more than 700 cancer-specific scientific
investigation programs and clinical trials, the Karmanos Cancer Institute is
among the nation's best cancer centers. Through the commitment of 1,000 staff,
including nearly 300 faculty members, and supported by thousands of volunteer
and financial donors, the Institute strives to prevent, detect and eradicate
all forms of cancer. John C. Ruckdeschel, M.D., is the Institute's president
and chief executive officer. For more information call 1-800-KARMANOS or go to
www.karmanos.org.
SOURCE Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Patricia A. Ellis of the Barbara Karmanos Cancer Institute, +1-313-576-8629,
+1-313-410-3417 (cell)
