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To the editor:
The skies cleared after the nor’easter to allow a beautiful morning for the 13th annual Miles for Mary 5K Run and Walk on Saturday, Oct. 18. Hundreds of runners, walkers and strollers of all ages joined the scenic course around Marblehead Neck. The 5K aims to raise awareness and funds in support of brain cancer research.
This year’s 5K winners were Scott Grandfield, winning the men’s category, and Eleanor Morgan, winning the women’s category. The winning team was the Notch Running Club. Turnout of student runners and teams running was the best yet.
Many generous individuals and local businesses have offered support of brain cancer research through Miles for Mary. All funds raised directly benefit research at the Mass General Cancer Center. To date, over $800,000 has been raised to further the search for better treatments for brain cancer.
The inspiration is the memory of Mary Park and too many other beloved members of our community who have suffered from brain cancer. Longtime friends of Mary’s are still among the volunteers checking in 5K participants, while new supporters, including Mary’s grandchildren, help with other planning and logistics. Miles for Mary is part of the Marblehead Road Race Series, the last of which is the Rotary Club 5K on Nov. 2.
The 5K also serves to spotlight Miles for Mary’s second important event, a Research Seminar focusing on the latest innovations in brain cancer treatment research. Dr. Elizabeth Gerstner is returning for her 13th visit, and this year she will be joined by Dr. Michael Parsons. The event takes place at the Eastern Yacht Club on Monday, Nov. 3 at 5:30 p.m. Registration is open through the Miles for Mary webpage.
Gerstner is a neuro-oncologist at the Mass General Cancer Center. She is currently co-leading a clinical trial, named INCIPIENT, using CAR T-cell technology to treat patients with brain tumors. This trial continues to enroll participants and develop stronger techniques to use the CAR T-cell technology to treat brain cancer.
Dr. Michael W. Parsons is a clinical neuropsychologist in the Pappas Neuro-Oncology Center. His clinical and research activities focus on the cognitive and behavioral consequences of brain tumors and their treatment. The goals of his research are to understand how brain tumors and treatments affect thinking, emotions and daily activities, and to develop treatments for these problems.
Bill Park
Fort Sewall Terrace
