Race for Hope DSM

• Race for Hope-DSM:- Run 3.1 Miles

WHO ARE WE? Race for Hope Des Moines is an important event inspired by Nicolas Lovan, a 14 year old Des Moines native. In November 2012, doctors diagnosed him with an inoperable brain tumor. Despite recently having brain surgery, Nicolas had an immediate vision to get involved as an advocate. Researching his diagnosis on the internet, he and his mother found the National Brain Tumor Society. Through the organization, they discovered several ways to participate in Brain Tumor Awareness Month, which is in May. They participated in the Washington, DC Race for Hope May 2012 to raise funds for the National Brain Tumor Society. Additionally, Nicolas and his mother advocated for more research and funding by meeting with Congress at the White House Head to the Hill event.

VISION:The vision did not stop there. The Washington, DC event inspired Nicolas to host a similar event locally in Des Moines. Since learning about his brain tumor and the lack of information around the Des Moines area, Nicolas wanted to find a way to educate and honor others who are going through similar experiences. His inspiration motivated the creation of the Race for Hope – DSM, a 5K Run/Walk Event. His goal was to make this an annual event each May during Brain Tumor Awareness month to bring awareness to the cause, raise much needed research funds, bring the community together, pay tribute to those who have passed, and celebrate survivors.

PREVIOUS YEARS: The first year brought over 600 runners and supporters to Des Moines, raising over $25,000 which went directly to the National Brain Tumor Society, a non-profit organization that partners with the world’s leaders in research, public policy, and clinical care to advance the understanding of brain tumors, expands the availability of new treatments, and drive the discovery of a cure. The second year the event added another beneficiary, the Dragon Master Foundation a non-profit organization working to create a large-scale database of molecular, genetic, clinical and environmental data to assist researchers. By collaborating data, they are able to find trends and similarities to link individuals to clinical trials more quickly and to assist researchers in determining potential causes and cure.

BRAIN TUMOR FACTS: Each year, more than 69,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with a primary or metastatic brain tumor. Today, nearly 700,000 people in the United States are living with the diagnosis of a primary brain or central nervous system tumor. Brain tumors are often deadly, impact quality of life, and change everything for patients and their loved ones. At this time brain tumor research is underfunded and the public remains unaware of the magnitude of this disease.

• Brain tumors will be the cause of an estimated 14,080 deaths this year
• Brain tumors are the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children (males and females) under age 20 (leukemia is the first)
• Brain tumors are the  leading cause of cancer-related deaths in young adults ages 20-39
• There are 120 different brain tumor types yet only 4 FDA approved treatments

The course is 5000m (5K) long. This has been accurately measured and sanctioned by USATS. It is run in Waterworks Park, Des Moines Iowa and run entirely on paved footpaths. It is a fast, flat course and great for achieving a PR!

http://www.raceforhopedsm.org/maps/