The recent news of Senator John McCain's brain cancer has put the disease in the national spotlight, but many others are battling the deadly disease.
Nearly 700,000 people in the United States are living with a form of brain cancer, with 80,000 expected to be diagnosed this year alone.
That is why the Head for the Cure foundation was born. They aim to raise money and awareness through their annual, nationwide 5K runs and to inspire hope in the community of brain cancer patients, families, friends and caregivers.
Omaha mother Angela Merckle knows all to well the damage these brain cancers and tumors can cause. "This disease shows no discrimination, no one is safe."
Merckle was diagnosed with a brain tumor and cancer in 2013 and hit the ground running in the battle of a lifetime. "I researched and I came across Head for the Cure and it combined two of my favorite things, being outside and running, and it was also for a cause that personally impacted me at that point. I've been running in the races every year since then."
Merckle says Head for the Cure was a bright spot during those dark days. "Not only am I running, and feeling great, but it almost gave me a sense of community. Like I kinda forgot I'm battling this."
The foundation has given Merckle more than just a physical outlet on her road to recovery. She says it has been an emotional support system as well. "Its just actually given me, kinda that pedestal to be more comfortable with sharing my story. Inspiring others, and providing hope and showing that, you know, we can beat this together."
Merckle says by attending the 5K run/walk, you can look around and see just how many lives are affected by brain tumors and cancers. "We all travel our life, day to day, not knowing what story lies behind each of us. I feel that being at an event like this, it kinda, gives you that moment of 'wow, all these people are impacted in ways I never knew,' and it brings everybody together."
The Omaha Head for the Cure 5K Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, July 29th at 8:00 AM at the Lewis and Clark Landing.
If you'd like to register or would like more information about the foundation, you can visit the Head for the Cure website here.