Climb4Life, sponsored by the HERA Women's Cancer Foundation, brings women, men, ovarian-cancer survivors, their families and outdoor enthusiasts together to rock climb, hike and practice yoga.
"Climb4Life is truly a one-of-a-kind event that we hope brings more awareness to ovarian cancer," executive director for the HERA Foundation Meg Steitz said. "The event is about more than rock climbing or being out on the trails. It's about gaining strength, courage and self-confidence - qualities that can be applied to many of life's challenges, including fighting cancer. Whether you're a first-time climber or a veteran, or whether you've been affected by ovarian cancer or not, anyone can join us this weekend for a weekend of hiking and climbing with the pros for an incredibly worthwhile cause."
The HERA Women's Cancer Foundation was founded in 2002 by Sean Patrick, an avid skier, mountain biker, hiker and rock climber who had undergone more than seven ovarian-cancer surgeries. She wanted to increase awareness of ovarian cancer through a series of unique events different from traditional run, bike and swim fundraisers. She started Climb4Life in Salt Lake City, and the event has since expanded to Boston, Washington D.C., Salt Lake City and Boulder.
Patrick lost her battle to ovarian cancer in 2009. Ovarian cancer takes the lives of over 15,000 women each year and is the fifth most-common cancer in females in the United States. One in 71 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in her lifetime, and the fatality rate for those diagnosed is more than 80 percent. With early detection, about 94 percent will survive longer than five years after diagnosis; however, only 20 percent of ovarian cancer is caught early.
Through its Climb4Life series and other fundraising events, HERA commits more than 85 percent of the funds raised for scientific research and community grants, as well as education and awareness initiatives for ovarian cancer.
Climb4Life begins Friday at 4:30 p.m. and goes through Saturday. For more information on the event or to register, visit http://www.herafoundation.org/c4l-colorado-2012/.
Annie Wernsman contributed to this report.
(KUSA-TV © 2012 Multimedia Holdings Corporation)