By Sophie Pappas
Lou Anne Brennan is not immune to the plight of those around her. In fact, she’s been so affected by her friends and family that for the past two years she has been involved with the St. Vincent Cancer Walk in Zionsville.
“The St. Vincent Cancer Walk is a way for me to give back to St. Vincent,” said Brennan, who is co-chair of the event this year.
On Saturday, Zionsville’s Lions Park will be filled with hundreds of people like Brennan, people who are there to support and raise money for the hospital that sees cancer patients 365 days a year.
“I have walked in the event from its inception. My father led a long productive life, and at the age of 89 passed away due to cancer. He received his cancer care at St. Vincent for which I am grateful. During his journey, he discussed with doctors about the needs of cancer patients beyond the radiation and chemo. He was an advocate for programs that helped patients beyond their medical needs,” Brennan said.
Brenna said that these programs are what the St Vincent Walk provides with the funds it raises.
“The Walk funds helped start the patient navigation program at St.Vincent, provided the new cancer information kiosks in the Cancer Center that allow patients and family members to learn about their diagnosis and treatment,” she said. “We’ve also provided the funding for our art therapy program, yoga classes and support groups. These programs and others we’ve made possible, really have a positive impact on patients and families and help them feel supported, encouraged and give them hope.”
This year, St. Vincent Cancer Walk participants are hoping to raise enough money for the hospital to purchase a mobile cancer-screening vehicle. The 10-mile challenge walk $50 donation per participant and the three-mile family walk is a $30 donation per participant. There is no fee for children age five and younger. For more information, or to register for the walk, visit www.StVincentCancerWalk.org.
