The Sole Burner is back for its’ 41st year!

Gary Akgulian, the event’s committee race director, said there are multiple reasons to join the American Cancer Society Sole Burner 5K this year.

Gary Akgulian

“It’s been going on for 41 years now and is a staple spring event in the Fox Cities that makes a difference, raising close to $8 million over the years,” he said.

The money raised from the May 13 event not only funds research but also helps the community by providing programs to support and make life easier for those battling cancer.

This year’s Sole Burner will continue to fuel the mission of the American Cancer Society, an organization that strives to end cancer as we know it for everyone. The George & Gussie Balck and Arthur & Mary Leske Fund within the Community Foundation is the event’s major sponsor.

Gary participated in the event for many years before leading the event committee.

“Although I personally have not had cancer, I know the journey can be lonely at times. Seeing others come together to rally behind family, friends and co-workers by running or walking in our event is inspiring,” he said. “It shows that fighting cancer is both a local and national effort and that we all are involved in the journey to some capacity.”

There’s still time to be part of the Sole Burner 5K Walk/Run to celebrate people who have been touched by cancer, remember loved ones lost and take action for lifesaving change. The Community Foundation will have a team participating.

Click here to register or more information about the event. For questions related to the event, please contact [email protected].

Devin Schiesser is the senior development manager for the American Cancer Society North Region in Wisconsin
.