JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – The Waves of Gray 5K for brain cancer awareness in Jacksonville Beach is only a week away, and the deadline to sign up online is quickly approaching.
The race will be on May 11 at the Sea Walk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach. The money raised goes toward supporting research programs through Baptist MD Anderson.
In 2016, Dianne Waters’ husband, Fred Fenton, died from an aggressive brain tumor. Less than a year after he was diagnosed.
Waters said she decided to launch the Waves of Gray 5K so her family could come together and support the cause.
“We always said that. He was the one person, and I was the one person out there just made just for each other,” Waters said.
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It’s been nearly eight years since Waters lost her husband, but she still loves talking about all the things that made him special.
“Help you just, I mean, just all around a great guy. I mean, he’s just strong and loving and caring. And we all miss him very much,” Waters said.
Fenton was diagnosed with glioblastoma — a fast-growing and aggressive brain tumor.
Waters said it heavily impacted the left side of his body and vision, eventually leaving him wheelchair-bound before he died.
Through her grief and a desire to help others, Waters launched the Waves of Gray 5K.
News4JAX attended last year’s 5K, where more than 1,200 people came out to support the cause.
Waters said they’re prepping for 1,500 people. Right now, there’s just over 1,000.
“One of our main goals, get more people talking about it, more people involved in the community, and just fighting for better treatment options and survival rates. And it’s, it’s just a mission that is in me, and I cannot shake it,” Waters said.
The last day to sign up online is Thursday, May 9 at noon.
People can still sign up in person through the morning of the race on the 11. If you’re not able to physically participate in the race, this year does come with a virtual option.
To sign up for the race visit this website.
Locations for packet pickup will be at Fluffy Cuts in Jacksonville Beach on Friday morning from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and at Baptist MD Anderson in San Marco on Thursday and Friday, both from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
To schedule a life-saving blood donation appointment at the event visit this website.
If you want to donate to the cause, please visit this website.