central oregon running klub and st. charles foundation proudly presents

heaven can wait: 5k walk/run for breast cancer

history of event

Heaven Can Wait began in 2000 after Charlene Levesque, wife of Central Oregon Running Klub (CORK) President, Joe, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Charlene's diagnosis prompted CORK to begin brainstorming the creation of a women's event that would promote early detection of cancer and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.

From this early idea, "Heaven Can Wait" has grown into a premiere athletic event in Central Oregon and an annual celebration of cancer survivorship."Heaven Can Wait" is held on National Cancer Survivor's Day, the first Sunday in June.

heaven can wait mission

To educate women about the importance of early detection of breast cancer, encourage women to run or walk for their health, bring the community together in a celebration of life and raise funds for the Sara Fisher Breast Cancer Project, a local program dedicated to early detection of breast cancer and support services for women who are diagnosed.

st. charles' sara fisher breast cancer project

Proceeds from the Heaven Can Wait benefit "Sara's Project," a local program of education and outreach, no-cost breast screenings, research, and support programs and services for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Sara Fisher, a cherished teacher, counselor, and active comunity volunteer, died in the fall of 1992 after a seven year battle with breast cancer. Sara's Project continues to promote women's health through research, education, outreach and support services.

course

5k (3.1 miles) starting and finishing in Bend's beautiful Drake Park. The course takes you south toward the historic Old Mill District and Mill Point Business Park, winds back through McKay Park and residential neighborhoods, and returns to Drake Park where festivities and the finish line await. The route is mostly flat with hills on Columbia and Shevlin-Hixon. The course will be well marked. Click here for the race map.

safety

Aid stations will offer water, and volunteers along the course will encourage and help direct participants. No strollers, dogs, or rollerblades allowed on course for insurance reasons. Listen to announcers and volunteers, and watch for posted signs.

awards

Honor cancer survivors in our community with festivities at the finish line including music, food, massages and exhibitor booths offering cancer prevention information, free mammogram sign-ups for eligible women and information on local programs and services. Bring your family and friends and join in the celebration of life.

Overall awards to the first runner, first masters (40+yr.) runner, and first cancer survivor to finish. Ribbons to the first three finishers in each age category. Awards and prize drawing will be held in Drake Park at 10:45 am.

why take part?

• To support the early detection and support programs under the Sara Fisher Breast Cancer Project.
• Survival rate at 5 years is 95% if breast cancer is detected early.
• 168 women from Central and Eastern Oregon were diagnosed in 2004; women need our support.
• Walking, running and living a healthy life-style can reduce your chances of getting breast cancer.

schedule

registration form

Download and print the entry form.