'John's March' against stomach cancer

Sonoma Raceway lost one of its most visible and devoted staff members last year when John Cardinale, longtime vice president of media and community relations, passed away after a two-year battle with stomach cancer. Cardinale is one of nearly 11,000 people who will die from stomach cancer in the U.S. this year, and the raceway will continue its efforts to battle the deadly disease at the 3rd annual John March Against Stomach Cancer this Saturday, Jan. 18.

This unique fundraiser offers the public a chance to help raise funds for No Stomach for Cancer (www.nostomachforcancer.org) and enjoy a symbolic “march” around the raceway’s 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course. John’s March has raised nearly $29,000 over the past two years.

No Stomach for Cancer is a non-profit group that works to increase awareness and education about stomach cancer, provide a support network for affected families and support research efforts for screening, early detection, treatment and prevention of stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the world, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The American Cancer Society estimates there are one million new cases diagnosed in the world each year, with more than 800,000 deaths annually, yet it is one of the least funded cancers, in terms of research.

“I had the privilege of meeting John in person at last year’s March and will never forget the passion with which he spoke about not only raising awareness for the cause but about the power of the human spirit,” remarked No Stomach For Cancer Board Chair Beth Lambert. “Although people were there to raise awareness about stomach cancer and funds for research, John reminded them, showed them through his example, the importance of helping one another, even during the darkest moments.”

The public can participate in the event for a suggested minimum donation of $40, which includes the walk/run around the 2.52-mile road course, a T-shirt and light refreshments following the march. A shorter, less hilly course will also be available for those who cannot complete the 2.52 miles. The raceway’s Wine Country Winner’s Circle will be available for those who want to take pictures before/after the march. Children, pets, everyone is welcome (no scooters or skateboards will be allowed on track).

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the march will begin at 9 a.m. No advance donation/registration is required; just show up the day of the event. Please note: only cash and checks will be accepted. Checks should be made payable to No Stomach for Cancer, Inc.

If you cannot attend but would like to make a donation in honor of this event, please print and complete the John’s March Against Stomach Cancer donation form at www.nostomachforcancer.org/support-us/events and mail it with your check, payable to No Stomach for Cancer, Inc. All donations will be acknowledged.

For more information on the event, please contact Diana Brennan at [email protected] or 707-933-3918.