Cody’s Run to help cancer patients, families

Oklahoma runners are invited to support people battling cancer by signing up for the fifth-annual Cody’s Run on April 22 near Campus Corner.

All proceeds will go to the Cody Ponder Emergency Endowment Fund to help the University of Oklahoma Stephenson Cancer Center and state cancer patients.

The race will take place on the OU campus, starting at 8:30 a.m. on Asp Avenue in front of the Oklahoma Memorial Union. Runners can sign up at codysrun.org.

Ponder turned to the Center for help when Stephenson Cancer he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2011 because he wanted to be near his family and friends while undergoing treatment. Ponder died in November 2013, but his family continues to support the center and other cancer patients.

Shortly after his death, the family established a 5K and 1-mile run to keep Ponder’s memory alive and help others.

At the time of his death, Ponder was associate director of transportation at OU’s Parking and Transportation Services. His colleagues at Cleveland Area Rapid Transit now co-sponsor Cody’s Run to honor his memory.

Last year the run raised more than $25,000, and the goal for this year’s race is to beat that amount, said Doug Myers, OU’s Parking and Transportation Services director.

“Cody’s Run is one way for everyone to stop and celebrate life and the ongoing fight against cancer. Cody would love seeing so many of his closest friends, co-workers and family coming together to help those who battle cancer,” Myers said.

A portion of the funds raised will go to help Oklahoma families struggling financially with medical and daily expenses for cancer treatment.

The run has assisted multiple families with support in the form of lodging, transportation assistance, prescriptions and other treatment needs.

Another portion will go toward cancer research.