Steps to Save Lives Virtual 5K October 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

can i finish a 5k?

If you're in decent health, the answer is yes. You are welcome to walk or jog or run or even roll in a wheelchair or stroller. One of the reasons that the event is a 5K (3.1 miles) is so that we can have the broadest participant base possible. That makes the event more fun and raises more money for our mission. Nonetheless, you should check with your physician before undertaking any exercise if you have concerns.

will i get support to train for the event?

YES! ECAN has reached out to the folks who started the popular Couch to 5K program and they've allowed us to share their plans with you. So, if you want to join our group, we will be with you every step of the way as you prepare for this 5K. We have a special Facebook group to provide constant support and encouragement, along with all the tips and strategies to make sure you're ready on the big day!  We've even prepared a special playlist to lift your spirits and keep you going!

CAN I WALK the 5k instead of running?

Yes! Approximately 50% of our participants at our in-person events are walkers and walking is a great way to participate. Participants can also roll - in a chair or stroller!

IS THERE A MINIMUM AMOUNT OF FUNDRAISING I MUST DO?

No! But we hope that you participate because you want to end Esophageal Cancer as much as we do - and that you are inspired to do all that you can to reach that day! Every dollar you raise will bring us closer to the day nobody has to die of Esophageal Cancer. We provide you with the tools to make fundraising easy (your own web page, sample email messages, social media links, fundraising tips and more!
Don't worry, we've got your back!

DO YOU AWARD PRIZES FOR FUNDRAISING?

Everyone who raises as little as $100 gets a prize - and the more you raise, the more prizes you get! You can
see all of our fundraising prizes here. All of the prizes we award for fundraising are items we do not sell in our store - they are just for our treasured supporters who are working with us to fight Esophaeal Cancer.
And for this event, we have some really special prizes for the folks who raise the most! In addition to recognition at our closing ceremonies, every member of the team that raises the most will get a special periwinkle wicking shirt with the design of their choice on the front! And the individual who raises the most will get an amazing gift from our partners at the Estate of Humphrey Bogart!

WE WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT EVERYONE WHO SUPPORTS OUR LIFE-SAVING MISSION KNOWS HOW VERY MUCH THEY MEAN TO US!

DO TOP FINISHERS OF THE RACE GET AWARDS?

Yes. In addition to medals for all who finish the 5K, there are awards for the top three overall male and female finishers as well as for the top three male and female finishers in each age group. All of these top finishers will be recognized at our closing ceremonies!