BETHESDA, Md., April 16, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Walk for Bladder Cancer® will be held in nearly 60 cities across the U.S. this May to support the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) and raise awareness of this deadly disease. The Walk series attracts nearly 4,000 participants and benefits BCAN's programs to empower patients and advance science. BCAN hopes to raise $600,000 nationally. The registration fee is $20 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. Go to www.walkforbladdercancer.org to find a local Walk or call 1-888-901-BCAN.
The Walk, held in most cities on May 2nd, coincides with Bladder Cancer Awareness Month. Bladder cancer is the 5th most common cancer in the U.S., and nearly 75,000 people are diagnosed each year. Public awareness of the disease is alarmingly low. The Walk shines a spotlight on the signs and symptoms of bladder cancer and provides hope for new treatments.
From coast to coast, dedicated volunteers will host the Walk in local parks, neighborhoods, and town centers to recognize survivors, honor loved ones, and remember those we've lost. Bob Holder, a Walk organizer from Hampton, NH, has led the event locally since 2011. "Seven years ago, I was diagnosed with the bladder cancer and went through a very challenging time with reoccurring cancers and several trips to the operating room. My family and I searched the web for information on treatment and causes for this cancer. We have not found out the "why," however we have certainly come to realize that bladder cancer needs to be talked about, and funds need to be generated so a cure can be found."
Mary Beth Ballard is a new Walk organizer in Nashville, TN. "I walk because of the tremendous support and love I receive from my family and friends, who honor my experience with bladder cancer by joining my team or spreading awareness. I walk to bring together those closest to me, to make connections, and to do something larger than myself."
BCAN would like to acknowledge the generosity of Photocure, the National Sponsor for the Walk for Bladder Cancer®, as well as the volunteers, team captains and participants who help further BCAN's mission.
About the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network's (BCAN) mission is to increase public awareness about bladder cancer, advance bladder cancer research, and provide educational and support services for the bladder cancer community.
BCAN serves as the leading voice for bladder cancer in the U.S., providing resources to not only those diagnosed with the disease but their families, caregivers and the medical community united in support of people touched by the disease. The organization is setting the agenda for bladder cancer by promoting and funding collaborative and cutting-edge research programs and providing critical patient support and education services. Each year, it provides thousands of patients, caregivers and the medical community with the educational resources and support services they need to navigate their bladder cancer journey. BCAN works collaboratively with the medical and research professionals who are dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer and empowers the patient community by allowing them to share experiences with others, and to participate in building awareness of the need for a cure. For more information go to www.bcan.org or call 1-888-901-BCAN (2226).
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