The Masonic Cancer Center at the University of Minnesota is a unique place made possible in part by the generosity of our donors. All of us at some time have been or will be touched by cancer and with your support, we will continue to find ways to improve the life of cancer patients, survivors and their families.

Each and every gift is critical to preventing, treating and curing cancer.

We are grateful for your interest and welcome the opportunity to share with you how your gift can support the work of the Masonic Cancer Center. Learn about our priorities or how you can give.

Upcoming Events

Funds raised at the following events support research at the Masonic Cancer Center:

• September 13: Twin Cities 2008 Lung Run/Walk
• September 13: Twin Cities Purple Ride
• September 13: Silent No More 5K Walk/Run for Ovarian Cancer
• September 20: Cannon Valley Cancer Ride
• October 11: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

September 13, 2008: Twin Cities 2008 Lung Run/Walk
8 a.m., West side of Lake Calhoun at Thomas Beach, Minneapolis
The second annual Twin Cities Lung Run/Walk, sponsored by A Breath of Hope Lung Foundation, raises funds to support innovative lung and esophageal cancer research. The event is a 5-kilometer run or walk with a 1-mile option for walkers. Registration begins at 8 a.m.; running race begins at 9 a.m.; and the walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Special Acknowledgement Balloons will be available to honor loved ones. A survivors' photo, live music, and refreshments will be part of the memorable day. Fees: Adult $25; child $15; children under 5 are free. Opportunities for volunteering are available. Visit www.abreathofhope.org/events.html for more information.

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September 13, 2008: Twin Cities Purple Ride
Elm Creek Regional Park, Maple Grove
The Twin Cities Purple Ride is sponsored by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Riders can choose from three distances: an 8-mile family ride, 25-mile river route, and 50-mile touring route. No matter which distance you choose, the event promises to be a good time for everyone. Once you are registered, you can create your own fundraising page. Each person over 18 commits to raising a minimum of $100. If you can't make the ride, you can also register as a virtual rider and raise funds online. Volunteer opportunities also are available. For more information, visit the Purple Ride Web site, or call Katie Ortman (651-276-0616) or Jennifer Tompkins (612-298-0511).

A strong University of Minnesota presence, including researchers, medical personnel, and Minnesota Medical Foundation staff is being organized for the Purple Ride. Contact Cathy Spicola, Masonic Cancer Center development officer, (612-625-5192, spico005@umn.edu) to join the team.

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September 13, 2008: Silent No More 5K Walk/Run for Ovarian Cancer
Rosland Park, Edina
The Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance Silent No More 5K Walk/Run for Ovarian Cancer raises funds for ovarian cancer research, education, and support for women with ovarian cancer and their families. In just eight years, MOCA has awarded more than $2 million for ovarian cancer research in Minnesota, thanks in large part to the success of the Silent No More event. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; a survivor photo will be taken at 8:30 a.m.; 5K run begins at 9 a.m.; 2K walk begins at 9:30 a.m.; and a Kids Fun Run begins at 10 a.m. For more information or to register, please call 612-822-0500 or visit www.mnovarian.org.

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September 20, 2008: Cannon Valley Cancer Ride
Riverside Park, Cannon Falls, Minn.
The Cannon Valley Cancer Ride is a fun, family-oriented 20-mile bike ride on the scenic Cannon Valley Trail. The event is organized by Red Wing Masonic Lodge and Cannon Falls Oriental Lodge to raise money for the Partners for Life Campaign, which was established by the Grand Lodge of Minnesota to help raise funds for the Masonic Cancer Center. Through the help of Minnesota Masonic Charities, every dollar raised from the Cannon Valley Cancer Ride will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

The ride starts in Riverside Park in Cannon Falls and goes to Welch and back. The registration fee is $35 for riders 12 and older and $20 for riders under 12, and includes lunch and a t-shirt. Same-day registration is $30 for riders 12 and older and $15 for riders under 12, and includes lunch, but no t-shirt. Registration and t-shirt handout will start at 8 a.m.; the ride will start at 9 a.m. Visit www.redwinglodge.org/Cancer_Ride.html for more information and a registration form.

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October 11, 2008: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Registration begins at 8 a.m; walk begins at 9:30 a.m., Lake Nokomis North Beach, Minneapolis
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a walk sponsored by the American Cancer Society to raise money and spread the word about fighting breast cancer. There is no registration fee and no fundraising minimum. These noncompetitive walks range in distance from three to five miles, and men, women, and children of all ages are encouraged to participate. For more information and to sign up, visit the American Cancer Society Web site or contact 651-255-8100, mnstrides@cancer.org.

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