The Los Angeles Sparks will partner with Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute for the 2007 “Run for Her” 5K Run and Friendship Walk Sunday, Nov. 11, it was announced.

The third annual event to raise awareness about ovarian cancer and generate support for the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute at the Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute begins at 8 a.m. at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles). Entry fee is $35 by Oct. 29 and $40 thereafter.

Sparks’ co-owners Carla Christofferson and Kathy Goodman along with general manager and former WNBA player Penny Toler and members of the Sparks’ organization will attend and participate in the event, expected to attract some 2,500 runners/walkers. The Sparks also will provide promotional support and donate for the “Run for Her “ raffle a chance to watch a 2008 Sparks’ home game at STAPLES Center from the Owners’ Suite. Since 2005 more than 2,500 women, men and children have participated in “Run for Her,” raising nearly $1 million for ovarian cancer research and awareness.

“The Sparks are excited to be a part of this tremendous community event,” Christofferson said. “Support of events like this is at the core of what we are trying to accomplish with our organization.”

“Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among women and is responsible for more deaths than the other gynecologic cancers combined,” said Dr. Beth Y. Karlan, MD, director, Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute. “Raising both awareness and research funding is essential, and I consider all participants to be true heroes.”

The much needed resources raised by “Run for Her” will support the WCRI Tissue Bank, the Gilda Radner Hereditary

Cancer Detection Program, and cutting edge research for new screening and diagnostic techniques for ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer research today is where breast cancer research was 20 years ago. The goal is to raise awareness of the disease. Ovarian cancer occurs in one out of every 55 women, and can occur at any age. Detected early and treated properly, more than 95 percent of women survive longer than five years.

The Women’s Cancer Research Institute (WCRI) is directed by Dr. Karlan. It is a multidisciplinary program aimed at accelerating bench-to-bedside cancer research through comprehensive, compassionate, cutting-edge cancer care. The work of WCRI is targeted on four specific efforts: research, clinical care, and advocacy, and education, to end cancer as a threat to women.

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