The UVM College of Medicine running and marathon team began five years ago as a fundraiser for pediatric oncology research. For the last two years, members of the team have raised funds for the Steps to Wellness program, which is an oncology and hematology rehabilitation program run by Dr. Kim Dittus and Dr. Patricia O’Brien.
Part of the Vermont Cancer Center, the goal of the non-profit program is to help cancer survivors with the unique process of rehabilitation. It includes a physical therapy assessment, medical evaluation, personal exercise plan, and education about a healthy lifestyle. Patients can use the gym facility at Tilley Drive in South Burlington during their rehab program. Often, patients become involved in the marathon team through running on a relay team, cheerleading, or supporting fundraising efforts.
The team raises about $30,000 annually. Each member of the team is required to raise a minimum of $250 and is supplied with a fundraising page to help do so. Members of the running team are not just medical students! Anyone is welcome to join. We will be running bi-weekly throughout the spring semester. Options for running in the Keybank Vermont City Marathon are: A five-man relay option (3-6 mile legs), a two-man relay (13.1 miles each) option, or the full marathon. You don’t have to run to be involved; there are many other ways to support the team. Any level of fitness is welcome- the more the merrier.
The team captains for this upcoming year are Marie Lemay, Jessica Huang, Amy Hopkins, and Joey Kelley, of the Class of 2017. Any questions can be directed to us.
Happy running!
