Circle K Hosts Alvernia Against Cancer Walk

Alvernia University Student Organization Circle K International hosted "Alvernia Against Cancer," a walk dedicated to cancer awareness at Alvernia's PLEX and Angelica Park where they raised $2,112 for the McGlinn Cancer Institute at Tower Health Reading Hospital.

"Alvernia Against Cancer allowed so many people to come together to celebrate the life of loved ones, fight with those who are still fighting, and to honor those who beat this disease," said President of Circle K, Lindsay Eckhoff, MSOT '23. "Looking back at this last year, this event was just an idea that I had because cancer hits so close to home for me along with so many more people in Berks County and at Alvernia University. My grandpa passed away from lung cancer and my dad is still going through cancer treatments; through this, I learned that cancer does not only affect the patient but the whole family and no one should fight alone. The love from everyone that participated in the walk truly amazes me."

The Alvernia University and members of the Greater Reading community gathered for remarks from cancer survivor & Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, Dr. Judith Schrepfer, DHS, OTRL; Occupational Therapy Department Chair & Assistant Professor, Dr. Elizabeth Bentz, OTD, OTR/L, SIPT, RYT; President of Circle K, Lindsay Eckhoff, MSOT '23; and Vice President of Circle K, Alyssa Yoder, MSOT '23. The donation presentation to the McGlinn Cancer Institute's Patient Assistant Fund and the ~1.5 mile walk from the Alvernia PLEX to Angelica Park immediately followed the remarks.

"I am proud of the students of the Circle K club and the occupational therapy students who organized a beautiful event to honor the lives of those who have been impacted by cancer," said Bentz. "When Lindsay Eckhoff brought her idea to me about an Alvernia Against Cancer walk, I told her that we would assist her with anything that she needed. Her idea took off. Lindsay, along with her classmate Alyssa Yoder, worked tirelessly to launch this event. Because of their efforts and the support of the community, family, and friends, they raised $2,112 for the McGlinn Cancer Institute. I want to extend my deepest gratitude for all those who participated in the walk or contributed towards the fundraiser."

Other Alvernia student organizations and community organizations were present throughout the event including representatives from the McGlinn Cancer Institute, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Berks Community Health Center, Co-County Wellness Services and Berks Teens, Safe Berks, LGBT Center of Greater Reading, All Abilities Fitness Center, Bethany Children's Home Inc. And the Alvernia occupational therapy students. These groups and organizations offered resources and information to participants.

"This event fostered a spectacular sense of community for both Alvernia and Berks County while rallying for those fighting an illness that affects so many," said Vice-President of Circle K, Alyssa Yoder, MSOT '23. "We are thrilled with the number of people who came out to support and donate to a cause we are all so passionate about."