The
Pacific Mesothelioma Center hosted the 6th Annual Walk/Hike for Meso at the historic Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills.
The event is highly anticipated in the local meso community and continues
to attract more people every year. The weather forecast was blazing but
that didn’t stop hikers from participating in the best-attended 5K yet!
Close to 400 family members, friends, and colleagues gathered to raise
awareness about mesothelioma and to pay tribute to those who have had
to battle the disease. Tina Herford, Judith Winkel, and a veteran mesothelioma
survivor who was diagnosed 20 years ago were among the patients who made
it out to the ranch. They are an inspiration to everyone in the community
and proof that funding research into better treatment options improves
quality of life and longevity.
The scenic hike weaves along the hills above the ranch. The trail is dotted
with informative facts about mesothelioma and asbestos, and each kilometer
is sponsored by the loved ones impacted by the illness. At the finish
line, hikers were greeted by cheers and cooling neck bands as they made
their way to the picnic area where they could enjoy the nostalgic tunes
of the 6 Billion Dollar Band. The generous catered lunch has always been
a major draw along with a variety of gourmet vendors fueling the participants.
As always, amazing prizes were generously donated and up for grabs through
the live auction and raffle, including a South African safari, a Maui
vacation, skydiving, kayaking, jewelry, gourmet dinners and so much more.
PMC was pleased to have CHiPS television star Larry Wilcox as Master of
Ceremonies this year. In addition to being a pop culture icon, Mr. Wilcox
is a decorated Vietnam vet and a patient of UCLA thoracic surgeon and
PMC Scientific Advisor Dr. Robert Cameron patient. Several years ago,
Dr. Cameron treated Larry for a benign chest growth and he has been a
grateful supporter of Dr. Cameron and his causes ever since.
As of last count, the event has raised $159,937 exceeding PMC’s original
goal, and donations are still coming in! The top three fundraising teams
were “Double Nickels” headed by advocate and family member
Cubby Winkel, “Cameron’s Cruisers” led by Dr. Cameron,
and “Team Chuck Jarvis” in honor of its namesake.
PMC’s Annual Walk/Hike for Meso is held to honor and all those who
have lost their battle with mesothelioma. A special thanks to Clare Cameron,
Executive Director of the Pacific Mesothelioma Center and Super Volunteer
Victoria Adams, as well as all of the volunteers and participants who
made this event possible with their time and support.
The Worthington & Caron law firm is proud to have been the lead sponsor
of the PMC Hike for Meso for the sixth year in a row.