Source: Rob Denell, 785-532-6705, rdenell@k-state.edu
Photos available. Call 785-532-6705.
News release prepared by: Marcia Locke, 785-532-6705, marcia@k-state.edu
Thursday, September 13, 2007
RODEO RAISES $5,000 FOR K-STATE CANCER RESEARCH
MANHATTAN -- Cowboys and cowgirls showed the power of pink this summer by raising more than $5,000 for Kansas State University's Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research.
The Kaw Valley PRCA Rodeo sponsored a "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" night July 27 at the Riley County Fair as a fundraiser, and contestants as well as spectators pitched in to make the event a success.
"Cowboys are tough, but the toughest heroes are the men and women who fight cancer," said Char Henton, Kaw Valley Rodeo Association member. "The rodeo community is a caring bunch and we wanted to dedicate one night of our rodeo to something bigger."
Rodeo participants and attendees wore pink that night in support of breast cancer survivors and research. Hundreds of pink balloons were launched and recognition was given to breast and other cancer survivors during the grand entry.
"The 'pink rodeo' was touching and fun, and we're grateful to the rodeo association for planning it and to the businesses and individuals who supported it," said Rob Denell, university distinguished professor of biology and director of the cancer center. "We're thrilled to have developed this new friendship. This special donation will help our affiliated scientists and students in their quests to conquer cancer."
"More and more cancers are being cured thanks to research, but much more research is needed," said Dr. Gene Klingler, a member of the Kaw Valley Rodeo Association. "There is excellent cancer research happening right here at K-State, and we felt good about keeping our donation local. We look forward to seeing even more pink in the arena next year."
The mission of K-State's Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research is to fund basic cancer research and support higher education, training and public outreach. All programs are made possible through private donations. More information about the center is available online at http://www.k-state.edu/cancer.center