Greenwich Village Gazette

By Donna Lamb

On Sat., June 7, thousands of people flocked to Hudson River Park's Pier 84 on Manhattan’s West Side for Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center's (MSKCC) 2nd Annual Rock & Run on the River.

More than 4,000 people began their day with the 5K run/walk along the Hudson River, which was followed by fun, food and entertainment on the pier. All the proceeds benefited Memorial Sloan-Kettering's Survivorship Initiative Program, because, as Mary McCabe, director of the program, stated, "There are more than 12 million people in this country living beyond cancer. Memorial Sloan-Kettering is committed to helping patients make the transition from active treatment to survivorship, while promoting a high quality of life for this growing population."

Three people who felt a great sense of accomplishment at having completed the run/walk were Pascale Orival, whose family roots are in Haiti, and Mary Quijano and Jennifer Aquino, (left) both of Phillipino descent. "We all work very closely with a lot of cancer patients at Sloan-Kettering," said Ms. Orival. "We’re very happy to be here today because this is another way for us to help support survivors and hopefully work to find a cure for cancer."

There was something for everyone at the Rock & Run post-race celebration, which featured NBC's Dan Abrams and fashion designer Carmen Marc Valvo, who emceed the live music performances by popular local bands throughout the event.

As people came off the run/walk, one way they could enter the pier was through the misting machines that produced lovely breezes of cooling moisture – a great hit with people and dogs alike. They could then head straight over to Brunch Along the Hudson River with its healthy and delectable offerings, or stop by the Cool-Down Lounge (right) first for a little relaxation on a comfortable padded mat, a complimentary massage, a "yoga recharge" and guided meditation.

For the young and the young at heart, there was a Kids’ Zone where creative, hands-on activities were available courtesy of Citibabes.

Brushed and ready to pose for Polaroids with anyone who wanted a photo were the therapy dogs, accompanied by their handlers, who volunteer with the Caring Canines Program (left). These lovable canines – which ranged in size from a three-pound Teacup Poodle named Blackberry to a 130-pound Bullmastiff named Lilly – visit MSKCC patients upon request, no doubt bringing them comfort and some joy at a very difficult time.

Representatives of Visible Ink, a one-on-one writing program for MSKCC patients, were also in attendance, letting people know about their free program because "writing is a powerful means of self-expression that can enhance physical and emotional well-being and alleviate stress."

A unique item introduced at the event was Sable’s Health Bars, designed specifically for cancer patients. As the creator, Alicia Sable-Hunt, explained, during her 15 years as an oncology nurse, she witnessed firsthand the common problem facing cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy: the change in taste sensation and loss of appetite at the very time it is more crucial than ever to maintain a well-balanced, nutritious diet. Therefore, working with cancer and nutrition specialists along with cancer patients undergoing treatment, she set out to invent a line of health bars that would help patients thrive by providing nourishing, easily digestible, and appetizing food that requires no preparation and can be eaten anywhere.

In the Cycle for Survival tent, volunteers brought attention to the annual indoor cycling fundraiser to benefit research on what are commonly known as "orphan" cancers – relatively rare forms of the disease that often lack the funding needed to support advances in treatment.

One of the most popular tents was the Drum Café (below), which offered interactive drumming for people of all ages and abilities. Led by expert drummers, each participant had fun following along on their own drum as the rhythm changed and developed in complexity.

There was also a Survivorship Area: a private gathering place offering cancer survivors the opportunity to share their stories at the video testimonial booth, post a note on the Survivor Wall telling of their emotions and hopes for the future, receive a complimentary massage, and relax with family and friends.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering's Cancer Survivorship Initiative employs a team approach to providing a full range of comprehensive medical services. It assures cancer survivors continued access to MSKCC's expertise, combined with an array of services, including physical rehabilitation, nutrition counseling, and psychological support. For more information, visit http://www.mskcc.org and click on Living Beyond Cancer.

Photos by Donna Lamb

Last Week