By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer

NORTH SHELBY—Join popular nighttime news anchor Brenda Ladun and the American Cancer Society for the 11th Annual Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer Run at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen on March 7.

The annual event, which consists of both a 5K run and a one-mile run, works to raise awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society.

“Brenda Ladun is a cancer survivor… she’s the local celebrity,” volunteer event chair Staci Rice explained. “(The run) started as a way to raise funds and support of ACS.”

Last year, the Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer Run saw more than 700 participants and raised approximately $100,000 for the American Cancer Society, Rice said. This year, she said she hopes to see the same community support.

The event will kick off at 8 a.m. with the 5K run, followed by a one-mile Color Explosion Run at 9 a.m.

“The color run is something new this year,” Rice said, explaining participants will run through non-toxic colored powder. The one-mile run is perfect for younger participants and those who may not want to run a full 5K, she added.

After the running events, the American Cancer Society will recognize cancer survivors with a birthday celebration, complete with cake and a balloon release.

“They’re here to celebrate another birthday. We want them to feel loved and appreciated,” American Cancer Society Community Manager Julie Coop said. “We’ll bring all the survivors up front and sing them happy birthday.”

Additionally, St. Vincent’s One Nineteen will offer free blood pressure, skin cancer and vision screenings, free physical therapy consultations, $99 mammograms and free massages for runners throughout the event.

“They just are a wonderful sponsor,” Coop said of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. “They really have a huge presence at the run… They provide someone to lead us in the warm-up.”

Sponsors for the Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer Run will also provide food for the runners and participants, such as pastries, snacks and beverages from the Egg and I, the Magic Muffin, McAllister’s Deli, Ashley Mac’s and Chicken Salad Chick.

For more information and to register for the event, visit Main.acsevents.org/site/TR/CommunityFundraisingPages/CFPFY10Mid-South?pg=entry&fr_id=69622.