Cleveland CureSearch Walk generates $60,000 for childhood cancer research

CLEVELAND - Four hundred walkers took in the fall sunshine at Wade Oval Park in University Circle, raising more than $60,000 for child cancer research.

The third annual event, created by CureSearch for Children's Cancer , featured Cleveland Clinic pediatric oncologist Dr. Gregory Plautz, CureSearch Development Manager Courtney Bollman, and event Chairman Steve Crowley.

"Survival rates have come a long way in recent decades, more than 80 percent," said Bollman. "But when it's your child who is diagnosed with cancer, the survival rate is either zero or 100 percent."

Right now, 36 children are diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. everyday, and more research dollars are needed.

The event was hosted by NewsChannel5 Troubleshooter Joe Pagonakis, who led a balloon launch in memory of the local children who lost their battle with cancer.

Information on how you can donate, raise funds, or get involved in generating awareness, can be found on the national CureSearch website.

You can also make a $5 donation using your smart phone by texting "curekids" to 50555.

CureSearch walks have grown from just a few dozen, to more than 100 across the country, in just the past three years.