Yesterday morning, October 22nd West Chester University held their 4th Annual 5K STOMPS Cancer Run at Ehinger Gym.
Our economy may be on the uptick, but there are still many families in this country whose finances are stressed beyond their means, and when those families find themselves facing a foe like cancer, the bills quickly mount. That’s exactly why West Chester University brought the already-exciting 5K Stomp Cancer Run to their campus, originally formed from its parent non-profit organization, Bring Hope Home.
David Timmann, director of the Sykes Student Union and adviser for the university’s Stomps Cancer Run, discussed in further detail what he admires about this event. “The run will benefit a needy family, and the money will go right into their pockets. It won’t just go into a large corporation,” he said. “I’m so proud of the commitment from the students, and their passion that I see when they’re doing things for families as an organization. This is a very unique organization.”
Since the beginning, West Chester University Stomps Cancer Run has successfully adopted about four families who are inflicted with cancer. The money would 
sometimes go towards cancer treatments or home repairs that they could not afford, as the money was being spent towards those treatment. Now, in it’s fourth year, the student-planned run will include roughly 300 runners who will be completing the 5K in various Halloween costumes, starting at Ehinger Gym and looping twice throughout the campus.
Adding to the excitement of the event, there’s also a Halloween contest, and the best costume will win a prize. David is awed by the dedication of the students and inspired by how much fun the entire extended community has at this event, not just students. “We were the first college chapter,” he said, “because the founder of Bring Hope Home is one of our alumni. I’m proud of that.”
Check out West Chester University online for more information on upcoming events.
