- July 5, 2024
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Before the sun rose on April 2, 300 people were getting registered at Birthplace of Speed Park for a run on the beach. It was the morning of the 19th annual Rayz Awareness 5K and 1 Mile Walk/Run, a fundraiser for melanoma research. It was started in the memory of Bill Walter III, who died in 1998 from melanoma at the age of 36.
His son, Austin, was 5 when he died, and was there to take part in the race.
“To see so many people here to help the foundation and keep his memory and spirit alive … it’s awe inspiring,” he said.
Bill Walter III had worked on local beaches as a lifeguard, and his parents, Bill and Pat, of Daytona Beach, speak to lifeguards each year about the importance of protection from the sun.
His widow, Kathy, also participated in the race. She and Austin now live in Colorado.
She said she feels good knowing they are helping current patients as well as funding research.
“We’re making a difference,” she said.
This year, about $20,000 was raised for the Melanoma Research Foundation. Over the years, the 5K has raised $300,000 for the foundation, according to organizer Donna Hiatt.
One of the booths at the event was staffed by Ormond Beach Dermatology, 305 Clyde Morris Blvd., Suite 150.
Terri Bianchi, DNP, ARNP, said every day in the sun counts.
“Skin cancer does not forgive,” she said. “One burn dramatically increases the chances of getting cancer.”
She also emphasized the importance of protecting children.
“Freckles are not cute,” she said.”They are concerning on little people.”
People can protect themselves other than using suntan lotion, she said. For example, when going about daily activities, it’s a good idea to use a skin moisturizer with 30 SPF.
For information on skin cancer, visit spotme.org.
